A public consultation on the proposed high-speed rail network between London and Birmingham is currently being conducted with many voicing concerns that the project is not necessary. According to Philip Hammond, the UK’s transport secretary, the consultation is nationwide and gives everyone the chance to contribute their views on what will be a major investment in improving the country’s economic competitiveness.

Opponents to the scheme claim that too few have been made aware that this is their chance to contribute to the debate. Joy Fielding, an opponent from Staffordshire’s Kings Bromley, said the proposed route of the high-speed service would cut straight across the farmland belonging to her family.

She added that too much faced being destroyed by HS2 just to shave around 20 minutes off the time it takes to travel from the capital to Birmingham. A second phase will see the high-speed link join with Manchester.

Maggie Punyer whose home is near Lichfield in Staffordshire said she had not realised that the proposal would leave her effectively isolated. A supporter of the scheme who works in Lichfield said an HS2 station in Birmingham would be a definite asset for travellers across the Midlands.

The present phase of the consultation process is due to wrap up in July and a final decision on the project by the government is expected to be announced before the end of this year. Many living close to the proposed route are concerned that their property will be devalued and that there will be increased noise pollution.