The new HS2 rail line is one of the biggest, most expensive and most controversial infrastructure projects in the UK today. It runs straight through Hertfordshire.
It’s supporters say it will improve the economy in the North of England by making journey times by rail from London a bit quicker. Some northerners point out that this is a very London based point of view, and it would be more benefit to the north to improve local rail lines, such as the dreadful trans Pennine routes. And those who oppose it because of the impact on the environment, and the cost, point out that the COVID lockdown has changed the way we work for ever. Working from home and meeting online has replaced face-to-face meetings, especially where the money and time taken up by travelling all day are not worth while for a 2 hour meeting.
Phase 1 of HS2 runs from London Euston to Birmingham: this is the phase that goes through Hertfordshire. Phase 2 runs on from Birmingham to Leeds and Manchester.
The line is passes through the following places in Hertfordshire:
- South Heath, near Tring in the north-west of the county.
- The Chilterns Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, where the line will be in a tunnel.
- West of Hemel Hempstead, passing through the village of Felden.
- East of Kings Langley, where the line will pass through a cutting.
- West of Abbots Langley, where the line will pass over a viaduct.
- Through the Colne Valley, where a major viaduct and tunnel will be built.
- East of Rickmansworth, where the line will pass through a cutting.
- Through Chorleywood, where the line will be in a tunnel.
- Through Amersham, where the line will be in a cutting.
The latest updates on progress, including the inevitable disruption to travel, can be found here.