THE man who has been leading the first phase of HS2 has announced his resignation.

Simon Kirby, who joined HS2 Ltd from Network Rail as chief executive construction, is moving on to join Rolls Royce.

He said: “HS2 is not just a highly ambitious project, but also one which will leave a lasting legacy for Britain. It has been, therefore, a huge honour to have been its chief executive and to have been involved in creating a leadership team made up of the best talents from this country and elsewhere. I have absolute confidence in their ability to deliver the project and, in doing so, to help transform the way we do things in this country.”

HS2 Ltd chairman David Higgins added: “I am delighted for both Simon and Rolls Royce that he has been appointed to this position. Whilst naturally we will miss his experience and leadership, I also recognise that he is joining a  truly great, global company in an industry in which he has previously worked.

“In his two and half years with the company, Simon has used his vast experience to recruit and shape a world class team which over the coming years and decades will turn HS2 into a reality that will be of lasting benefit to this country.

“That team will continue that process as we start and complete the process of finding Simon’s successor.

“I am also delighted to be able to announce today the appointment of Mel Ewel, formerly Chief Executive of Amey, as a Non Executive Director. His great experience in the construction industry speaks for itself, as does the huge respect in which he is held. As such he will be a great asset to the Board’s deliberations as we move to the point of construction.”

The Hybrid Bill authorising the construction of Phase 1 between London and Birmingham is expected to receive Royal Assent by the end of this year.