HS2 is not the worst infrastructure project in 50 years

The claim that HS2 is the worst infrastructure project in 50 years is unfounded and misleading. While costs have increased, the project's benefits and impact on capacity have not been fully considered. Cancelling HS2 could significantly hinder the transformational shift in capacity that is desperately needed in the UK. The cost of constructing a high-speed line in the UK is higher due to factors such as limited space and lack of experience in building such projects. Claims about the destruction of ancient woodlands are exaggerated, with the actual impact being a fraction of the total ancient woodlands in the country. Private finance can play a role in certain aspects of the project, but it cannot fully replace the need for public investment. The decision to cancel HS2 has serious negative consequences, including congestion on existing lines and a lack of future capacity to meet growing demand.