HS2 CEO Mark Thurston has revealed that he will be leaving the organisation after six and a half years in charge
As Phase One of the high-speed rail network connecting London and the West Midlands reaches its peak construction, HS2 will redirect its focus to railway systems, which include elements such as signalling, track, and power.
For continuity, Mark will pass the baton to the new leadership, who will oversee the transition to the next phase of the project.
The HS2 project will evolve in the coming months
“Leading this organisation has been the highlight of my career and a privilege from the first day – the programme has come such a long way and I want to thank everyone who has worked on the project during my time,” said Mark Thurston.
“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,” he continued.
Mark joined HS2 in March 2017, after the organisation obtained Royal Assent for Phase One of the project. This granted HS2 the authority to construct the initial portion of the railway. During this time, Mark improved HS2’s capabilities, allowing the organisation to manage the delivery of Europe’s largest infrastructure project.
In 2020, Mark was responsible for obtaining government approval to commence major construction works. Since then, he has mobilised a workforce of 28,500 workers, including 1,200 apprentices.
HS2 has experienced numerous issues during Thurston’s tenure
However, HS2 has encountered numerous setbacks, leading to multiple delays. Originally scheduled to open in 2026, the project’s completion timeline has been extended to a range between 2029 and 2033.
These delays have been attributed to construction challenges and escalating costs.
“I’d like to thank Mark Thurston for his work over the last six years progressing Britain’s most transformative rail project. As well as successfully overseeing the start of construction, he has ensured HS2 has created tens of thousands of skilled jobs and apprenticeships across the country,” said Mark Harper, secretary of state for transport.
“As HS2 enters its next phase, the Government remains committed to unlocking all the benefits of this flagship infrastructure scheme – increasing rail capacity, connecting communities and growing the economy,” he added.
The initial phase of HS2 construction is currently in full swing, with activity taking place across over 350 sites from London to the West Midlands.
Significant progress on the HS2 route, including the launch of six tunnelling machines. Construction of the Colne Valley Viaduct, the longest railway bridge in the UK, is currently underway. Additionally, the Marston Box rail bridge over the M42 motorway has set a new global benchmark for infrastructure projects.
Mark Thurston will handover to Sir Jon Thompson
Mark will conclude his tenure at HS2 in September of this year. Sir Jon Thompson will assume the role of Executive Chairman on an interim basis until a new Chief Executive is appointed. Sir Jon Thompson will be accompanied by Elaine Holt, his deputy chair, in providing support at the Board level.
“Mark’s leadership has been critical to the success of the HS2 programme. In his time as CEO the project has moved from a scheme in development to a major construction project that employs 28,500 people across the country,” commented Sir Jon Thompson.
“His legacy is building the foundations of HS2 which will bring growth and prosperity to towns and cities across the Midlands and the North. I want to thank him for his leadership and service,” he concluded.
