New high-speed train line HS2 could be re-routed towards Heathrow if the government’s aviation inquiry recommends developing the airport.
New transport secretary Patrick McLoughlin signaled the potential change, according to the Daily Telegraph.
McLouglin has reportedly said that HS2 may have to be “adapted” depending on what Sir Howard Davies, the economist leading the government’s airport commission, says about Heathrow.
“I hope if anything needs to be adapted we will have time to do it,” he said.
Aides acting for the transport secretary stressed they would not “prejudge” the findings of the aviation inquiry.
However, they made clear that HS2’s route could be redirected towards Heathrow if the economist recommended expanding the airport, the newspaper reported.