HS2 GETS GREEN LIGHT BUT NOT GREEN BACKING

摘要

Green groups and environmentalists have slammed the government's plans to construct High Speed 2 (HS2), despite pledges to reduce damaging effects. HS2 was approved by transport secretary Justine Greening last month and is described as the most significant transport infrastructure project in the UK since the building of the motorways. Supporters claim it will narrow the north-south divide, reduce overcrowding on the current rail network and create jobs and prosperity. Opponents say the economic case is weak and argue the government has over-inflated the 'green' benefits.