The Department for Transport believes the first phase of the revolutionary High Speed 2 (HS2) rail development is "one step closer" after two consultations were launched today (May 16th).

Government officials have urged the public to respond to the project's draft Environmental Statement and are also seeking views on proposed design refinements.

The latter is aimed at giving people a chance to react to changes made to the original route between London and Birmingham, while the former looks at how the lines will blend into the landscape of affected areas.

Transport secretary Patrick McLoughlin said HS2 is "absolutely vital" for the UK, but such a huge project cannot be completed without some disruption.

"Publication of these plans is a crucial next step and will ensure that construction of the first phase can begin within the next four years," he remarked.

The consultations will be open until July 11th.

Earlier this week, the government announced a revision of its original HS2 route to make room for an important new rail freight hub near East Midlands Airport.