HS2 rakes in £14million a year renting homes on scrapped rail routes

HS2 Ltd is now generating more than £14 million annually by renting out hundreds of properties purchased along the route of the cancelled and curtailed high-speed rail project. The company has acquired hundreds of homes since its inception, primarily in the West Midlands, with many located in areas where the project was scrapped. According to reports, these properties are now being leased to tenants, with rents likely covering maintenance costs. However, it remains unclear whether the rental income is being returned to the Treasury or used to offset the overall project costs. The revelation highlights ongoing financial complexities surrounding the £33 billion HS2 project, which has faced significant budget overruns and scope reductions.