Is the proposed high speed rail link a friend or foe to our precious ancient woodland?
This is no 'green Government', says Woodland Trust over decision to destroy ancient woodland for HS2 - read our press statement.
The Government plans to build a high speed rail link known as High Speed 2 (HS2), between London and Birmingham. Plans of the scheme and preferred route were published in December 2010 and a consultation relating to the need was held over the summer of 2011.
The Transport Select Committee carried out an inquiry into the strategic case for High Speed 2. Their report was published on 7th November 2012 - read our response here
...Twenty one ancient woods under threat...
We echo many people's concerns over HS2's potential environmental impact. Our primary worry is the high level of damage to ancient woodland along the route.
We have identified a minimum of 21 ancient woods under threat of direct loss from the proposals. A further 27 ancient woods are within 50 metres of the track centre. The exact level of loss and damage will depend on the final track specifications.
