He was appointed to the HS2 board as a non-executive director in June 2018 after leaving Crossrail two months before.

At the time of his departure Transport Secretary Chris Grayling said: “Andrew’s leadership of Crossrail has been critical to its success to date.

“I am delighted that my Department will be continuing to work with Andrew in his capacity as a non-executive Director of HS2 Ltd, where his experience and skills will continue to be put to good use, to the benefit of the sector.”

Since Wolstenholme’s departure it has been revealed the project is at least £2.8bn over budget and will not be open until 2020 at the earliest.

The Enquirer has previously reported on handsome performance bonuses paid to project chiefs.

Grayling confirmed Wolstenholme’s departure today as the HS2 board was expanded with the appointments of Dame Judith Hackitt and Stephen Hughes as non-executive directors.

Dame Judith was the chair of the Independent Review of Building Regulations and Hughes served as chief executive of Birmingham City Council for nearly 10 years

Hackitt is currently leading the post-Grenfell review of building regulations and fire safety while Hughes led Birmingham Council.

Alongside these new announcements, two existing NEDs – Ed Smith and Roger Mountford –  were reappointed for a further three years.

Grayling said: “HS2 Ltd continues to have a world-class leadership team.

“Their collective wisdom and expertise will be invaluable in overseeing the construction of one of the UK’s most important infrastructure projects, ensuring we deliver on the opportunity of huge economic growth for the north and Midlands and improved journeys for passengers right across the country.”