Is the proposed high speed rail link a friend or foe to precious ancient woodland?
The Government plans to build a high speed rail link known as High Speed 2 (HS2), from London to Manchester and Leeds via Birmingham.
Phase One
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 route was then updated in January 2012.
Phase Two
Plans released in January 2013 show the new "Y" section of the route, consultation for this section of the route is due in Summer/Autumn 2013.
The route so far
Our analysis of the route so far shows that 33 ancient woods are under threat from the whole route with a further 34 at risk within 200m of the line.
The exact level of loss and damage will depend on the final track specifications.
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.
Find out about the workshop and talk that we will be providing at the HS2 Convention
High Speed 2 Limited has published the Draft Environmental Statement and a Design Refinement Consultation for Phase One