HS2 link to WCML

Jim Steer (RAIL 966) emphasises the extra expense being incurred by HS2 from ignoring Oakervee’s recommendations on the use of UK gauge and standards, the need for connections to local transport, and the unnecessary work at Euston (RAIL 966).

He also reminds us of the very long timescale for benefits to be experienced. At a time of shortages, it is regrettable that HS2 Ltd is taking a substantial fraction of the budget for rail when more urgent and important work is needed on local schemes.

A possible way forward is

enhancement of East West Rail and blending in the largely excavated section of HS2 at Calvert to link with the West Coast Main Line at Bletchley.

This would relieve the majority of the WCML commuting load and allow useful stops such as Coventry and Wolverhampton. Then procure passenger-friendly tilting trains to increase speeds and reduce the time to Scotland.

The current demands of HS2 Ltd for grandiose stations with poor connections, and for the ‘fastest very high-speed trains in Europe’

for our compact island, reflects badly on rail industry judgement.

Dr D J van Rest, Amersham