The announcement is welcomed by NFU President, Meurig Raymond, as several points raised by the NFU were acknowledged in the committee’s report.
He said: “As the NFU highlighted in its response to the consultation, the committee’s report has noted that mitigation planned away from the line should only be on farmland out of production or of low inherent fertility. We should not see any more productive farm land lost in the development of HS2 than is absolutely necessary. The committee has also highlighted as an example that 250 hectares of woodland lost to the scheme should not by offset by planting 650 hectares of woodland on prime agricultural land.
“We have also said that biodiversity off-setting options should be offered to a voluntary provider – and this could be a farmer. This is where we would like to see HS2 seeking out opportunities as there will be landowners who would welcome areas of habitat creation on their land. This has also been noted in the environmental audit committee’s report.”
If woodland is lost, rather than replacing it with a larger habitat area, the area should be replaced with a habitat area of the same size but with the emphasis on improving quality.
The committee also said that compensation should bring benefits to local people disrupted by the railway.
“It is critical that Government strikes an appropriate balance between what is best for nature and what is best for those affected. We also agree with the committee that money to manage these new habitats needs to be ring-fenced.
“Since the beginning of this process we have argued that these proposals have failed to take into consideration the very real impacts the development of HS2 will have on those agricultural businesses affected.
“While the report said that better safeguards were needed for ancient woodland and wildlife habitats, for example, we have urged them to consider safeguards for productive ‘food-producing’ land so that it is not taken out of farming to create new woodlands and grassy areas especially given the amount of farmland which could already be lost to create the line itself. We must remember, as the report acknowledges, the soils that will be disturbed during the building of this line and associated works will need care and management for at least a decade to restore them back to productivity. At a time when we are seeking to increase food production, the value of agricultural land must be given a clear commitment. ”