Updated 11.00

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 Department for Transport has highlighted that a 360km/h line speed would mean that trains could not be fully tested until the line had been built, which would increase the cost of the project. It also pointed out that 300-320km/h are the maximum speeds on existing high speed routes like the French LGV network and also on HS1 between London and the Channel Tunnel.

Transport secretary Heidi Alexander said: ‘This Government is determined to deliver HS2 as effectively and efficiently as possible. In doing so, I will look at every opportunity to claw back construction time, save taxpayers money and ensure the project delivers for the country.

‘I share the public’s anger about the waste and mess of the past which is why this Government is pulling HS2 out of its sclerosis and setting it on a more sensible course.

‘We're getting a grip, controlling costs, and getting on with delivering the transport infrastructure this country needs.’

Mark Wild has been given until the summer to provide a progress report and opportunities of reducing costs.

He said: ‘I made a commitment to the Transport Secretary that I would regain control of HS2 and bring an end to the project’s cost increases and delays.

‘With performance moving in the right direction, driven by the hard work of 30,000 people on the ground, we are rightly exploring options to create further efficiencies.

‘Speed has never been the primary objective. This railway will deliver better journeys, more capacity on the network, and economic growth – all of which are vital to the country’s future prosperity.’

However, critics are claiming that reducing speed will also reduce the benefits.

TSSA general secretary Maryam Eslamdoust said: ‘I’m afraid this is a very unwise idea. HS2 must be safe but instead of offering a choice between further delays or reduced speeds Ministers should be seeking solutions now so that HS2 is running at full speed on day one.

‘Frankly anything else will leave Britain in the slow lane not just in comparison with other countries in Europe but also China. HS2 is vital because a vibrant growing economy in the 21st Century needs reliable high-speed rail links.

‘If true, these proposals diminish our ability to grow local, regional and national economies, and therefore undermine what the government has long claimed as its top priority.’

On the other hand, some industry observers are in favour of the idea.

Director of policy and external affairs at the Institution of Civil Engineers Sam Gould said: ‘Today's statement from Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander illustrates how big a job there is still to do at HS2. Good progress has been made under the leadership of Mark Wild, however, the length of time it's taking to get back on track demonstrates how important it is to get plans right in the first place.

‘Any project of this scale needs to spend significant time in development before work starts. Infrastructure should meet the public’s needs, not prioritise design for design's sake.

‘While it's frustrating for the industry and the public to still have questions about final costs and schedules, the fact that the government is taking time to get the most accurate figures is positive, and will likely save money in the long run.’

Railway Industry Association chief executive Darren Caplan said: ‘Yesterday’s announcement is an important reminder of the key construction milestones which have been achieved ahead of schedule by HS2 and its supply chain over the last year.

’The Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander is right to recognise that HS2 will deliver much needed rail capacity in the years ahead, that it will ultimately enable more reliable and frequent customer services, and that it will generate significant economic benefits for the country such as creating jobs and boosting skills. We now look forward to more milestones being reported and acclaimed in the months to come.’

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