HS2 Updated Position Statement

In August BCT responded to a consultation on the HS2 Phase One supplementary environmental statement. As a result of the consultation we have produced an updated position statement.

In summary our primary concerns were that:

• The impact of habitat loss and limitations of compensation were not fully acknowledged, especially when referring to irreplaceable habitat (ancient woodland) with slow maturation rates (all woodland).
• The extent of 'temporary' impacts associated with the operational phase were not clearly acknowledged and mitigated.
• Provisions had not been made to ensure mitigation measures are maintained for the long term

Specifically, the loss of ancient woodland and the nationally significant impact this will have on one of our most important and protected species, the Bechstein's bat raised major concerns.

Read our position statement