Britain's High-Speed HS2 Project Delayed by Four Years

The construction of Britain's HS2 railway line, aimed at connecting London to northern England, will face a four-year delay due to cost overruns and scope changes. The government remains committed to completing the London–Birmingham section, despite the postponement of the extension north of Birmingham.

Britain's ambitious HS2 high-speed railway project, designed to connect London with northern England, is set to be delayed by at least four years, according to an announcement made on Wednesday. The project has been plagued by escalating costs and shifting priorities since its inception in 2012.

The previous government had already scrapped plans for the northern segment stretching from Birmingham to Manchester due to soaring expenses. A spokesperson for HS2 Ltd conveyed to Reuters that efforts would now focus on finishing the main London–Birmingham line, delaying the northern extension.

Despite the delay, officials have committed to completing the northern extension in the future, as part of broader efforts by the Labour government to expedite planning for strategic infrastructure developments. The government's growth agenda remains focused on enhancing connectivity and capacity, notably including airport expansions in London.

(With inputs from agencies.)