Plans approved for HS2 'green tunnel'

The Kenilworth Greenway will run alongside the railway cutting with noise barriers

Plans have been approved to mask an HS2 railway tunnel with greenery in Warwickshire.

The tunnel in Burton Green will be covered with plants and new footpaths to increase biodiversity, the railway said.

The Kenilworth Greenway, that provides links for walkers, cyclists and horse-riders, will be realigned under the plans.

It will cross under Cromwell Lane, Burton Green, and over the roof of the green tunnel with noise barriers.

The northern section of the structure will provide the railway with a 1.4km (0.8m) cutting with retained walls, while the southern end will create a 400m green tunnel.

It is one of five 'green tunnels' being built as part of a HS2 project to help reduce impacts on people and nature.

The Kenilworth Greenway will be visibly shielded from the new railway

Anti-HS2 campaigners have previously described the tunnel designs as "window dressing".

Joe Rukin, from the Stop HS2 group, said: "All you have to do is look in that area and see the devastation of ancient woodlands nearby."

"All of these plans have to be regarded as what they are: greenwashing."

The railway's senior project manager, Alan Payne, said HS2 had worked with residents and authorities to create the designs.

"We’re committed to maximising green space around the new high speed railway," he added.