Question to the Department for Transport:

To ask Her Majesty's Government whether HS2 has received a bat licence which permits the demolition of trees in Jones Hill Wood, Buckinghamshire; if so, what are the terms of the licence, and whether they will place a copy of it in the Library; and whether they have confirmed that HS2 or its contractors (1) will not demolish any trees in that wood prior to receiving a licence, and (2) will only demolish trees in that wood in compliance with the terms of any licence.

HS2 Ltd has undertaken surveys of the area of Jones’ Hill wood required for clearance and has sought a licence from Natural England to undertake associated works. This licence, and its associated terms, are still the subject of discussion between HS2 Ltd and Natural England. Tree clearance at the woodland area of Jones’ Hill Wood required for HS2 construction has not yet commenced but is authorised in accordance to the High Speed Rail (London-West Midlands) Act 2017. Works which are relevant to licenced approvals will only take place when those licenses and permission are in place.