The government has announced that clearance of ancient woodlands in relation to HS2 will be halted, unless they are absolutely necessary to avoid major cost and schedule impacts, while an independent review takes place as to the scheme.

At least 108 ancient woods would be affected by HS2 as a whole, with 63 suffering direct loss and damage due to noise, vibration, changes to lighting and dust.

There are 34 affected sites in the first phase of the project from London to Birmingham. Clearance work on eight sites in Warwickshire and three in Staffordshire this autumn has now been halted.

Further details can be found here: https://www.gov.uk/government/news/transport-secretary-acts-on-hs2-ancient-woodland-clearances-during-oakervee-review