His only proposed cut is the connection between HS1 and HS2 in London.
HS2 Ltd has today published its new executive chairman's review of the project, HS2 Plus, including his thoughts on the progress made so far, its ongoing development and his plans for the future.
Sir David says that there should be a more comprehensive development of Euston station, an accelerated construction programme for phase two and improved links into the existing rail network in the north.
He has endorsed the current cost estimates, backed the proposed contingencies as appropriate and thrown his weight behind the necessity of the project. “I firmly believe that HS2 is essential for the future of this country,” he says.
On the Euston station proposals he writes: “I propose the government should look at a more comprehensive redevelopment of Euston – a solution that could truly stand the test of time and allow the station to join St Pancras and King’s Cross as an iconic driver of local regeneration whose beneficial effects will be felt for generations.”
He says the proposed solution is technically feasible but not ambitious enough. It also needs to be designed to accommodate Crossrail 2, he says. It would be funded by private sector over-site development and he recommends early engagement with developers on this.
Construction of phase one of HS2, between London and Birmingham, is set to start in 2017 and open for passengers in 2026. “Overall, I am satisfied that the £21.4 billion (including contingency) allocated to the Phase One infrastructure project, plus the £3 billion (including contingency) allocated for Phase One trains, is enough to deliver Phase One,” he says.
Under his vision, construction of phase two, the northern sections to Leeds and Manchester, would still start in the first quarter of 2021 but would be complete by 2033 rather than 2033 by accelerating construction. A new hub at Crewe could be completed by 2027.
“I propose the government should accelerate Phase Two as soon as possible to take the line 43 miles further north than planned in Phase One, to a new transport hub at Crewe which could be completed by 2027, six years earlier than planned. It is the right strategic answer, and not just for the area around Crewe: it would also deliver the benefits of HS2 – in terms of better services to the North – much sooner.”
He also questions current plans for connecting the existing HS1 line to HS2. Axing the proposed link to HS1 at St Pancras would save £700m and changing trains from HS1 to HS2 would be easy enough, he believes.
He writes: “It is the most cost-effective solution for linking the two networks. But it is an imperfect compromise because of the effect it would have on existing passenger and freight services and the local community. It would also use up HS2 capacity that could be better used on services to more areas, such as North Wales. The HS2 platforms at Euston will be a short distance from those at HS1, and one stop on the Underground. That is the equivalent of transferring from one terminal to another at Heathrow. I believe the government should, therefore, consider whether the cost – at around £700m – is good value or whether it would be better to consider an alternative, which would deliver the benefits of a link without compromising existing services.”
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