HS2: Don't forget about our paths

The Government has given the green light to a new High Speed Rail (HS2) network. The Transport Secretary, Justine Greening announced a series of changes to the route to include several tunnels through the countryside. The official statement can be found here. We are worried that these plans overlook the protection of rights of way.

We generally support improvements to public transport but like other supporters of the Campaign to Protect Rural England's 'Right Lines' Charter, we do not believe the government has proved the case for HS2 as the best way forward, outweighing the environmental damage. We call on the government not to proceed unless it can demonstrate, clearly and overwhelmingly, that this is the best future transport strategy for the UK.

However, we will campaign to save the paths that will be severed so people can continue to walk in this beautiful part of the country.