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HS2 Costs Soar 100%, Opening Delayed Past 2033

7/9/2025

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Summary

Story summary

HS2's ambitious first phase faces staggering delays and ballooning costs, now projected to soar 50-100% beyond the original £19.5 billion estimate. With only 60% of construction finished and no tracks laid, chief executive Mark Wild warned MPs that the final bill could surpass £100 billion, pushing the opening date well past 2033.

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Story summary

HS2's ambitious first phase faces staggering delays and ballooning costs, now projected to soar 50-100% beyond the original £19.5 billion estimate. With only 60% of construction finished and no tracks laid, chief executive Mark Wild warned MPs that the final bill could surpass £100 billion, pushing the opening date well past 2033.