Trains on HS2 could run more slowly as a result of cost-saving changes to the project. The planned maximum line speed of 360km/h may be abandoned in favour of 320km/h at the most. The rethink has been ordered by transport secretary Heidi Alexander, who is instructing HS2 CEO Mark Wild to examine various options which could mean that the line could be opened sooner, and at lower cost.

The last six platforms at Glasgow Central High Level will reopen on Wednesday, said ScotRail, although some entrances will still not be in use. The whole station was closed on 8 March after a building alongside had been gutted by fire, and Glasgow Central was cordoned off for safety reasons. At first, even trains at the Low Level platforms were running through without stopping, but they were able to call again from 11 March, and high level platforms 7 to 15 reopened on 18 March.