Parts of HS2 to be delayed or cut as ministers prepare to reveal rising costs

At least 2bn extra needed for London-Birmingham section as inflation fuels yet more budget overruns on troubled rail project

Ministers are set to delay construction of key sections of the HS2 rail line, with a statement expected imminently outlining the extent of budget overruns amid soaring inflation.

It is understood that parts of the high-speed network between Crewe and Birmingham are likely to be delayed or trimmed, while full running of trains into London Euston may also be held off further.