Activists stage HS2 train protest in Piccadilly Gardens: here’s what it’s about

Environmental activists took part in a “national day of action” to protest against the expansion of the HS2 high-speed railway, with the aim of raising awareness of the environmental and financial impact they believe phase 2 of the railway will have.

The Department for Transport says the line would cut travel times from Manchester to London by about 55 minutes and 45 minutes between Manchester and Birmingham. Grant Shapps, has called the Bill, which extends HS2 from Crewe to Manchester, “a landmark moment” in improving the country’s rail connections.

However, activists are more interested in improving the rail network in the North.

What is the Bill about?

The Bill will allow HS2 tracks to be installed and new stations and junctions to be built at Manchester Piccadilly and Manchester Airport. The line is expected to open between 2035 and 2040.

Meanwhile, local politicians have spoken out in support of HS2 but are calling for the Government to put a new rail station underground, amid concerns about current plans for an overground station near Piccadilly.