Skimping on HS2 will cancel out its benefits

sir – HS2 was never solely about speed, but its name focuses attention on a single factor (“Shambolic HS2 is the physical embodiment of Can’t-do Britain”, Comment, March 11).

The original business case for the line included “network benefits”, resulting from an increased capacity for freight and regional passenger services.

Having personally seen essential works to smooth the flow of freight to and from the existing West Coast Main Line, these potential benefits were always clear, and probably undervalued.

The arguments for increased rail capacity across many parts of the network are multiple. Heavy congestion has led to all-lane-running motorways, with the associated increase in risk. New rail trumps new motorway in every respect.

Having spent the monies to date, abandoning the project would incur cancellation fees plus remediation of the land, making that option unpalatable. While slowing cash flow on HS2 is probably unavoidable, it will increase overall cost.

However, without continuing to the original scope the residual issue is likely to be a rail line with truncated branches and stifled in its potential. Malcolm Geddis Newton-le-willows, Lancashire

sir – Untold billions are being thrown at the HS2 white elephant, with few, if any, tangible benefits to society.

A very small proportion of this amount would undo the damage being done to the English National Opera, the BBC Singers and the Britten Sinfonia, among many others, as a result of recent funding cuts.

I know where I would rather the money was spent.

Ian Rennardson

Tunbridge Wells, Kent