HS2 Delayed Again, Costs Exceed £100 Billion

The UK's HS2 high-speed rail project has again been delayed, with Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander confirming the London-to-Birmingham section will not meet the original 2033 target and no new completion date is set. Project costs have now risen above £100 billion, far exceeding the initial £33 billion estimate, amid persistent mismanagement and scope changes. The project's northern legs have been axed, and critics across the political spectrum are calling it a 'white elephant,' with some demanding cancellation in favor of upgrading existing railways. Public outrage has grown over revelations of extravagant spending, including £100 million on a bat tunnel and £250 million on failed Euston station designs. The Labour government has pledged to reset the project and implement independent review recommendations to improve accountability. The HS2 saga has left the UK viewed internationally as unable to manage large infrastructure projects.