Recent developments highlight significant challenges in the HS2 project, as noted by Transport Secretary Louise Haigh.
- Louise Haigh has described the HS2 project as a ‘dire failure’ due to uncontrolled costs and management issues.
- A new review, led by James Stewart, is set to reassess HS2 and other major infrastructure projects.
- Haigh is reinstating ministerial oversight to improve accountability and efficiency within the HS2 project.
- The ongoing issues with HS2 leadership continue, with delays in appointing a permanent chief executive.
The HS2 project continues to face criticism, with Transport Secretary Louise Haigh condemning it as a ‘dire failure’. Her statements underscore the persistent problems in managing the project’s budget and implementation. Since becoming transport secretary, Haigh has observed a worrying level of inefficiency, necessitating immediate corrective measures. Considering the complexity and financial magnitude of HS2, the need for stringent oversight and cost management is paramount.
In response to these concerns, a comprehensive review has been commissioned. James Stewart, a former chairman of infrastructure at KPMG, will lead this examination. The review aims to enhance the oversight of all major transport infrastructure projects, not solely HS2. Stewart’s inquiry will focus on assessing the accuracy of cost forecasts, schedule adherence, and potential improvements in efficiency. The upcoming results of this review will be pivotal in shaping future project management strategies.
To fortify project responsibility and oversight, Haigh is reinstating ministerial oversight for the HS2 project. Regular meetings will be convened, involving key governmental figures such as the transport secretary, rail minister Lord Peter Hendy, and the chief secretary to the treasury. This measure seeks to ensure that any emerging issues are promptly addressed and dealt with through the appropriate governmental channels.
The HS2 leadership structure remains in flux, further complicating the project’s progression. Over the years, HS2 has seen frequent changes in its executive team, with no chief executive in place for over a year. Sir Jon Thompson, serving as executive chairman, oversees operations, while Mark Wild, appointed as the next chief executive, has yet to assume his role. This instability is widely regarded as a contributing factor to HS2’s operational challenges. Transport Secretary Haigh emphasised the importance of rectifying these organisational issues to safeguard taxpayer interests and mitigate spiralling expenses.
The HS2 project’s future heavily depends on implementing effective oversight and management reforms to prevent past mistakes from recurring.
