Full Steam Ahead For HS2 Despite Criticism

The Government has said it will work to minimise the negative aspects of a new high-speed rail link between London and Birmingham as it gives the controversial project the go-ahead.

Transport Secretary Justine Greening told MPs in Parliament it was time Britain updated its Victorian railways for the 21st Century.

She said it was not a decision she had taken lightly "or without great consideration of the impact on those who are affected by the route".

In a bid to try and diffuse local residents' anger about the project, Ms Greening announced extra tunnelling on some parts of the route including Amersham, Ruislip, Greatworth, Aston le Walls, Wendover and Long Itchington Wood.

:: HS2 - The Cases For And Against