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Alternative HS2 plan from Lords

Services being limited on account of HS1’s capacity limitations? I think that is a good situation to be in, given that HS1 is falling short of its potential. Besides, there are plenty of other solutions if people are imaginative. For instance, some Eurostar services could change at Ebbsfleet International or Ashford International, with passengers for northern destinations changing for HS1-HS2 link services well-timed to link into them. I say this because some of the domestic high-speed services leave HS1 at Ebbsfleet International and they all leave HS1 beyond Ashford International.

Also, interchange at Ebbsfleet International is very easy, given that Eurostar passengers just go to the top of the escalator, turn left and they have reached the Eurostar check-in desk. Furthermore, Ebbsfleet International is very under-used and would therefore be a good means of relieving the pressure on St. Pancras International. If that is unpalatable, they could always do things like upgrade the TVM signalling system (say to ERTMS) to cope with higher capacities.

If Crossrail fulfils its idea of extending services to Gravesend one day and Ebbsfleet International and Northfleet stations are properly connected (i.e. by a bridge), the pressure on central London stations could also be relieved, as some people might find it more convenient to be dropped off at Ebbsfleet International station if there is Crossrail interchange. As for the disruption with boring tunnels to link into HS1 between St Pancras International and Stratford International, if the British railway industry resisted its temptation regarding over-assurance and construction work in the tunnel continued 24/7 until complete, the disruption could be mitigated. Also, Eurostar could operate a skeleton service from Stratford International until the work is complete. I say this even though I come into St. Pancras International on HS1 in the mornings. I hate to say ‘I told you so’, but for many months, I was wondering why they weren't considering a solution like this.

Re: Lords submit alternative route for HS2