The hybrid bill for HS2 has been published today (November 25th), marking another major milestone in its development.

This draft legislation covers various planning aspects of the scheme, enabling the government to build and operate the route. Anyone affected by the proposal has the chance to petition to Parliament, either for or against it.

Only last week, the High Speed Rail preparation (paving) Act received royal assent, being approved by the House of Commons and the House of Lords.

Transport secretary Patrick McLoughlin said: "HS2 is the most ambitious and important infrastructure project in the UK since we built the M25 30 years ago, and in 30 more it will be just as integral a part of the nation’s prosperity."

Alongside the hybrid bill, the government has also released its environmental statement for the first phase of HS2 - this outlines the potential environmental impact of the project.

It details various works taking place, such as planting two million trees to screen the track and reduce noise and how the land dugout from some sections will be utilised at other earthworks along the project, reducing the need for external supplies.