Project Redwood: Proof PM did plan to scrap new HS2 line

The government is in disarray as the row over scrapping the northern extension of HS2 continues to grow – sparking fears in No10 that the backlash to The Independent’s revelations could cost them votes at the general election.

Proposals to axe the second phase of HS2, which the Independent can reveal has been given its own special codename “Project Redwood”, could now be reconsidered following furious reaction from northern mayors, leaders and Tory MPs.

Secret documents outlining the cost benefit of ditching the rail project’s Birmingham to Manchester leg were drawn up for a face-to-face meeting between Rishi Sunak and Jeremy Hunt last week.