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The engineering challenge of the High Speed 2 (HS2) rail link between London and the north of England has taken a significant twist today (January 10th).
In a statement from transport secretary Justine Greening confirming the government's plans to press ahead with HS2, it was revealed that there will be 55 per cent more sections of tunnel on the route than outlined in the original consultation.
As a result, 79 of the 140 miles of line between London and Birmingham will now run in tunnels or cuttings and will mean that of the 13 miles of track within the Chilterns Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty less than two miles will be at or above surface level.
This move is a direct response to the concerns of environmental campaigners who have said that HS2 will have a "devastating" effect on the landscape.
Ms Greening said: "I am certain this strikes the right balance between the reasonable concerns of people living on or near the line… and the need to keep Britain moving."
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