The central London leg of HS2 is expected to be spared the axe even as the route between Birmingham and Manchester is scrapped.
The prime minister believes the rationale for HS2 is based on “old assumptions” and will abandon plans to build the line between Birmingham and Manchester. However, following intense cabinet lobbying, he is expected to say that the line will terminate at Euston rather than at Old Oak Common in west London.
He is likely to confirm the decision tomorrow in his speech to the Conservative Party Conference in Manchester.
Under the plans, the money the government would have to spend on the northern leg – about £36bn – will be reinvested in the Midlands and the North. But much of this money is not scheduled to be spent until the 2030s, limiting Sunak’s room for immediate giveaways.
He is also expected to make a commitment to a high-speed rail link between Manchester and Leeds.
