The decision to develop a national high speed rail network comes after extensive consultation with individuals, businesses and organisations across the UK.

The consultation on high speed rail was one of the largest ever undertaken by the Department for Transport, attracting almost 55,000 responses. In addition many thousands of people had their say during 41 days of public events held along the proposed route.

The Transport Secretary also held a special event for any interested MPs to express their views.

• High speed rail: Investing in Britain’s future consultation summary report, 10 January 2012
• High speed rail: Investing in Britain’s future consultation, 28 February 2011
• High Speed Two: Exceptional hardship scheme consultation, 11 March 2010