HS2 and its effect on nature

The HS2 scheme is one of the largest proposals to have emerged in recent years affecting Cheshire. The county would be hugely impacted upon by phase 2A (West Midlands to Crewe) and 2B (Crewe to Manchester). Some of the biggest effects of HS2 would be on wildlife habitats and biodiversity. The Wildlife Trusts have published a detailed report which highlights major errors and concerns with the methodology HS2 Ltd has used to determine the scheme’s design and impact on the natural environment.

To address the issues, the Wildlife Trusts have undertaken significant work to try and influence the HS2 proposals. They have also prepared an open letter to Government Ministers which asks them to compel HS2 Ltd to (in summary):

• Re-map existing habitats along Phases 1 and 2a, correcting mapping errors, applying the correct nature values to habitats, and ensuring no habitats are excluded.

• Re-calculate the total impacts to nature, by using an up to date and proven methodology, with all data made publicly available to enable independent scrutiny.

• Immediately pause all construction and enabling works and halt the passage of the Phase 2b Hybrid Bill while these latest audit findings are assessed by the Government.

• Change the scheme’s design and delivery to limit the adverse impacts and enhance biodiversity in a suitable way.

You can sign the open letter by following the advice on the Wildlife Trusts website.