Thanks – partly due to our campaigning – the rail route can fit in well with the countryside in some places. But elsewhere the impact is at best unknown, at worst potentially devastating. CPRE cannot come to a final judgement without a detailed Environmental Impact Assessment or knowing exactly how sections of the route will be built or will look when completed.

Now that a route for HS2 between London and the West Midlands has been confirmed for more detailed study, this can happen. Particular impacts to landscape, heritage, wildlife and communities may only be picked up at this stage. So it is essential the Government continues to be prepared to make further changes to the route, including lowering its speed and changing its alignment.

The local knowledge of people who live along the route of HS1 was key in securing improvements to its design. The commitment by Justine Greening MP, Secretary of State for Transport, to do her 'level best to work closely with communities as the High Speed project progresses' is therefore as welcome as it will be essential.

Branches – local impact
Find your local group

Right Lines Charter
A powerful alliance of respected organisations for doing High Speed Rail well, which CPRE took the leading role in setting up.
Visit the website to find out more rightlines.org.uk

In-depth
High Speed 2