Question to the Department for Transport:

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, on what authority the 300 year old oak tree was felled at HS2 Plan 11; and if he will make a statement.

The High Speed Rail (London - West Midlands) Act 2017 allows the nominated undertaker to carry-out a broad range of ancillary works within Act limits and provides the powers to undertake such felling works anywhere within those limits.

HS2 Ltd takes its environmental responsibilities seriously, and felling is only undertaken where necessary. The schedules of the 2017 Act provide further information, particularly Schedule 2 (works) and Schedule 30 (trees). All Schedules associated with the 2017 Act can be found here: https://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/2017/7/contents/enacted

HS2 Ltd’s aim is to protect the environment wherever possible, and to do more than just mitigate in the areas where it is constructing the railway. Along the route HS2 will leave behind richer, more diverse and better connected wildlife habitats. Up to 7 million trees will eventually be planted along Phase One, with many new recreational areas for communities to enjoy. Of the 43 ancient woodlands affected by HS2’s route between London and Crewe, 80% of the total area will remain intact and not impacted.