The HS2 programme was originally intended to improve capacity on the West Coast Main Line. However, with the cancellation of Phase 2, the revised programme will only address capacity between London and Birmingham. The Department is exploring options to run longer HS2 trains north of Birmingham, but this would require additional works at existing stations.73 Further options for addressing capacity issues include managing demand for rail services or investing in infrastructure such as additiona...

The HS2 programme was originally intended to improve capacity on the West Coast Main Line. However, with the cancellation of Phase 2, the revised programme will only address capacity between London and Birmingham. The Department is exploring options to run longer HS2 trains north of Birmingham, but this would require additional works at existing stations.73 Further options for addressing capacity issues include managing demand for rail services or investing in infrastructure such as additional tracks and longer platforms.74 Type: conclusion | Number: 43 | Response status: not_addressed Government response: The government agrees with the Committee’s recommendation. Target implementation date: Summer 2025 Preparatory work on a disposal programme for Phase 2 is already underway. As part of these preparations, the department is undertaking a review of the portfolio of land that was previously acquired for