The HS2 fiasco has left many wondering if the entire project is doomed. But, as Faisal Islam points out, there's a silver lining: the Western leg of the line might still get built in full. This is a surprising turn of events, considering the project's original vision and the recent cancellation of the Leeds and Manchester legs. The strategic case for HS2 was to rebalance the economy by connecting northern England and the Midlands with London. However, the project's scope has been significantly reduced, leaving many questioning its purpose. The government's commitment to Northern Powerhouse Rail and the use of HS2 legal powers could be the key to completing the Western leg. With lower land costs and a reduced need for expensive tunnels and verges, the cost per mile of track could be significantly lower. This is a crucial development, especially as other nations like Japan, Spain, and Morocco are delivering high-speed lines at a lower cost and faster pace. The UK government's desire to learn from HS2's overspecification and hasty contract handing out could be a double-edged sword. While it may lead to more efficient project management, it will also be an expensive way to learn. The real crisis here is the WCML, which is already at capacity and has been in use since the 1840s. The HS2 trains, designed for the straight HS2 lines, will run slower on the WCML, which could lead to worse services beyond Birmingham. This is a critical issue that needs to be addressed. In my opinion, the government's commitment to Northern Powerhouse Rail and the potential completion of the Western leg could be a turning point for the project. However, it's essential to learn from the mistakes made and ensure that the WCML is not overlooked. The future of HS2 is uncertain, but the potential for a more efficient and cost-effective project is there. The question remains: will the government seize this opportunity to rebuild the project on a more sustainable and strategic foundation?
