The Judicial Review of High Speed 2 has thrown out all but the claim relating to the levels of compensation available.
The claim relating to the level of compensation due to be paid to those living on or near the route was upheld.
However, the other claims brought by four separate campaign groups including 51M – an alliance of local authorities along the route – and Heathrow Hub – which hoped to promote a station at or near Heathrow.
The Judicial Review considered whether the consultation was adequate; whether enough information was provided; whether the project complies with the requirements of the Strategic Environmental Assessment Regulations; and whether enough consideration was given to the impact of HS2 on other parts of the transport infrastructure.
It concluded the government’s choice to rule out upgrading the existing network as a credible alternative to HS2 was legal, and that the consultation, environmental assessment and consideration of the impact on habitats and protected species, had all been carried out fairly and lawfully.
The 15 local authorities challenging the government lost on all seven grounds of challenge they attempted. Acording to reports, the Department for Transport will pursue the claimants for costs.
HS2 Ltd is now expected to submit a hybrid bill similar to that used for Crossrail to Parliament by the end of the year.
