HS2 Ltd is joining the industry's Rail Safety and Standards Board.

The development body set up by the Government to develop domestic High Speed rail would now 'benefit from expertise on risk analysis, standards and research', the RSSB said.

HS2 Ltd is currently working on two phases of HS2. The first, between London and the West Midlands, is currently set to open in 2026. HS2 chairman David Higgins has recently said that this phase could be extended to Crewe, with the remaining sections to Manchester, and also the East Midlands, Sheffield and Leeds, to be completed as Phase 2.

HS2 Ltd’s technical director Andrew McNaughton, who was previously chief engineer at Network Rail, said: “This is another important step in the development of a world-class 21st century railway system that will bring huge benefits for the country.

"HS2 will free up much-needed space on our current network, shorten journey times between our biggest cities and deliver jobs and regeneration opportunities. It is one of our Strategic Requirements to design HS2 so that it will operate at a level of safety regarded as world-leading not just when it opens but throughout the century to come. The know-how of our colleagues, through RSSB, will be invaluable in securing this.”

RSSB chief executive Chris Fenton added: "2026 may seem like a long way off, but the manner in which HS2’s infrastructure operates tomorrow needs to be considered today. 

"Through RSSB, we can support HS2 in designing in safety and efficiency into its interfaces by providing access to industry’s shared knowledge base, data, analysis, standards, research, development and innovation as well as involving HS2 Ltd in tackling cross-industry challenges. I’m delighted to welcome HS2 Ltd into our membership."