UK Government Increases Oversight of HS2 Project

The UK government, under Transport Secretary Louise Haigh, has announced urgent measures to control the spiraling costs of the HS2 rail project, which have reportedly ballooned from an initial estimate of £30 billion to as high as £74 billion. An independent review led by James Stewart will analyze the oversight and management of HS2 as well as other major transport projects, with recommendations expected this winter. Haigh emphasized the need for greater accountability through reinstated ministerial oversight, involving regular meetings with key officials to evaluate progress. The government has also decided against reviving previous plans for HS2's Phase 2 to Manchester, focusing instead on completing the Birmingham to London segment efficiently. Concerns remain regarding the effectiveness of the project's contractors and the accuracy of cost forecasts, with leaks indicating uncertainty over the extent of the overspend. Haigh reiterated her commitment to ensuring taxpayer money is used wisely and to prevent past mistakes from recurring.