West Midlands to Leeds (Phase 2b – Eastern leg)
On Wednesday, 4 October, the Prime Minster announced the UK Government’s intention to cancel the HS2 route north of Birmingham. Following this the Government published the Network North command paper.
At HS2 Ltd, we are working with the Department for Transport (DfT) to carry out the Government’s new requirements for HS2.
Safeguarding
HS2 Safeguarding Directions remain in place on the former Phase 2b route. The Government will thoroughly review the position they have inherited before setting out more detailed plans in due course, including future plans for HS2 Phase 2b safeguarding. We expect to know more during the summer 2025. We advise to monitor future government announcements on this subject.
A number of properties along this part of the route were purchased by HS2. A programme is being developed for selling land acquired for Phase Two that is no longer needed. This will take time because we need to make sure the programme provides value for money for taxpayers and does not disrupt local property markets. We plan to engage with the communities who are affected throughout this process.
Read further information on how the Government’s announcement affects HS2 property schemes.