The chief govt of the HS2 high-speed rail undertaking has resigned amid price and political pressures on the delayed undertaking.

Mark Thurston, 56, introduced he'll depart the job in September after six-and-a-half years, making him the longest-serving chief govt of the state-owned enterprise.

Another chief is required for the undertaking, Mr Thurston stated, as HS2 moved to a "defining period" with the set up of railway observe and signalling gear.

Mr Thurston was paid a wage of £617,300 within the 2021-22 monetary yr, in accordance with HS2 Ltd's newest annual report. He additionally acquired advantages price £5,400, it reveals.

Multiple delays have beset HS2. It was initially anticipated to open in 2026, which was pushed out to between 2029 and 2033 resulting from building difficulties and rising prices.

Major constructing work is at the moment happening at greater than 350 websites as a part of the section one building between London and Birmingham.

Read extraHS2 explained: What is it and why are parts being delayed?

MP members of the Public Accounts Committee simply final week pilled stress on ministers over the undertaking saying the delays to Euston station work present that ministers do not know what they are "trying to achieve".

"The next 18-24 months will see the project move into an exciting new stage. I have agreed with the board that someone else should lead the organisation and programme through what will be another defining period for HS2," Mr Thurston stated on Wednesday.