HS2 Gets the Go-ahead

The controversial HS2, a high speed rail link between London and Birmingham has finally been given the go-ahead by Transport Secretary Justine Greening.

The rail line will eventually extend to Leeds and Manchester but cuts through many areas of countryside and  has evoked strong and emotional opposition from those who live along the proposed route. In response to the opposition, Ms Greening yesterday announced a number of measures which she says will mitigate the issues raised.

Read the Transport Secretary's full statement on the BBC website.