Trees to screen high-speed line

The Government has pledged to plant at least two million trees along the proposed route of the new high speed rail line between London and Birmingham.

The trees are being planted in a bid to reduce the local impact on the landscape of the planned scheme, known as HS2, which will pass through picturesque parts of the Home Counties and south Midlands.

Transport Secretary Philip Hammond said the trees would help to reduce the impacts of the railway line, offset some of the carbon emissions of construction and create new habitats for local wildlife along the route.

The Department for Transport said the trees and shrubs will be planted to create a natural look, avoiding an artificial row of trees, and will be managed to sustain habitats and boost wildlife.