HS2: decision will "definitely" be made in January says minister
Date : 15 December 2011
The Transport Minister Justine Greening confirmed to the House of Commons Transport Committee yesterday (14 December 2011) that she would definitely be making a decision in January on whether or not to press ahead with HS2.
She was originally due to make an announcement this month, but said that she needed more time to consider the proposals.
There has been intense speculation that she plans to announce further measures, including a new £500m tunnel, to mitigate the impact of the proposed London-to-Birmingham high-speed rail link on the countryside north of the capital.
However, there has been no confirmation of this from the government. When asked about it during Wednesday’s meeting, she simply said she was considering all aspects of the scheme following the consultation process.
Although it is believed that senior figures in the government, including Prime Minister David Cameron, are still backing HS2, Ms Greening is showing signs that she is very much her own women.
According to reports, she clashed angrily with members of the Transport Committee when questioned about London Mayor Boris Johnson’s controversial scheme for a new airport in the Thames estuary.
It appears that the Transport Minister will have plenty to think about during her Christmas break.
If you think you will be affected by HS2, please contact Knight Frank's specialist HS2 team for advice. www.knightfrank.co.uk/hs2