A spokesperson for CH2M said: “CH2M has demonstrated all appropriate measures taken throughout to ensure the integrity of the procurement process. Notwithstanding these efforts, we have taken the decision to alleviate any further delays to this critical national infrastructure project which could ultimately lead to increasing costs to UK taxpayers, as well as to our firm.”

The company stated that this follows continuing discussion between HS2 and CH2M with regard to the award of the contract but added that protracted delays and ongoing speculation risk further delays to this critical national infrastructure, thereby increasing costs to UK taxpayers, as well as to the firm.

CH2M also clarified that it remains fully committed to working with HS2 on delivering Phase 1.