Recommendation 3

HS2 Ltd has started planning how it will integrate its systems for Phase One to ensure the railway works, but this is an inherently risky part of the programme. We previously raised concerns that, given the scale of the programme and its future impact on the rail network, if the Department does not give enough attention to managing the interdependencies within HS2 and other rail programmes, passengers and services would suffer. In addition to the stations and infrastructure, HS2 needs to ensure that railway systems can work together in order for services to run. HS2 Ltd is attempting to avoid the Crossrail experience of failing to integrate the various systems required to operate the railway. HS2 Ltd is starting to plan its approach to integration of systems early and has proposed a delivery approach which would incentivise alliances between contractors. HS2 Ltd recognises that this approach is bold and complex and has not been undertaken in the railways before, although there are examples in the oil and gas sector. The systems required to operate the railway in Phase One will not be installed and tested until the late 2020’s. However, procurements on the parts of the programme that are integral to the successful integration and operation of the railway are underway. Smaller contracts, such as tunnel safety doors, have already been procured, and larger contracts, such as track, electrification and signalling, are expected to be procured over the next two years. Recommendation: HS2 Ltd must continue to monitor and report on both progress and the time allocated to systems integration as part of the regular 6-monthly updates to Parliament, and inform the Committee promptly if the time allocated to these latter stages is at risk of being squeezed. HS2 Summer 2021 7 When it has announced the winner of its competition for the rolling stock contract, HS2 Ltd should write to the Committee to explain how the design and delivery of the train will support the integration of th