The working draft environment statement, recently released, indicates that as many as 47 wildlife rich sites covering over 200ha will be affected by HS2. 

17 Local Wildlife Sites will be almost completely destroyed and a further seven will be badly damaged. 

Along with this three ancient woodlands are directly affected as are many wetlands of vital importance for the survival of water voles, migratory and breeding birds, grass snakes and rare insects and butterflies. This includes one of the best birding sites in Derbyshire, Carr Vale.  

Kieron Huston, Regional Manager, said “At the moment it is clear that the environmental cost of HS2 is very high. This development will have the largest impact on wildlife that we have seen in Derbyshire since the M1 was built. 

Key habitats such as reed beds, lowland fens and flower-rich grasslands need to be a fundamental part of restoration and habitat creation during and after HS2’s construction if we are to avoid a disastrous outcome.”

We are responding to the latest consultation to raise our concerns with the Government and we will be keeping you informed on how you can help us as this matter progresses.