Alternatives to HS2

SIR – If the justification for HS2 is capacity (Letters January 23), I would like to see exact figures for the HS2 network as it is currently envisaged compared with a slower network.

I understand that faster trains get people to their destinations a little quicker, but the greater distance required between trains for safety reasons results in fewer per day.

Also, a new line, as HS2 is, could perhaps be engineered to accommodate double-decker trains if they ran slower, which again would mean greater passenger capacity.

I suspect that reducing the top speed and engineering for doubledecker trains would reduce the cost while maintaining – or perhaps even improving – the capacity.

I am no expert, but would like to be assured that such options have been considered.

Andy Bebbington

Ravenshead, Nottinghamshire