WATCH: HS2 advert dropped following complaints

Campaigners called the advert 'grossly misleading' and are hailing the move as a victory.

The embarrassing U-turn by HS2 came after 19 issues were raised in the complaint to the Advertising Standards Agency (ASA) about the online video.

The advert claimed the rail link is needed to 'bypass clogged arteries', that it will stimulate growth 'around the UK' and deliver £2 for every £1 spent.

But campaigners said it was disputed by the National Audit Office and Public Accounts Committee and the ASA has taken HS2 Ltd, which is behind the £50 billion scheme, to task over 15 of the complaints.

Would this advert change your views on HS2?

Instead of contesting the charge of false advertising, HS2 Ltd has agreed to withdraw the video, meaning the ASA will now not proceed with their investigation.

Stop HS2 campaign manager Joe Rukin said: "It is clear that HS2 Ltd have decided to withdraw a grossly misleading advert rather than have the Advertising Standards Agency rule that they had produced a grossly misleading advert."

Do you think the advert is misleading? Leave your comments below.

Stop HS2 has produced an edit of the video, detailing the points of the complaint, and has posted it on their website.

The ASA included HS2 Ltd in its list of 'informally resolved cases', which states: "After consideration by the ASA of complaints received, the following companies and organisations agreed to amend or withdraw advertising without the need for a formal investigation."

But Government bosses insist they were planning to take the video down anyway.

A Department for Transport spokesman said: "We stand by the information provided in the footage. The case for HS2 is clear – it is a vital part of our long-term economic plan.

"The video was always going to be taken offline after a year as we only bought annual music rights to support the film."

See also: HS2 group says link route will go ahead.

See also: HS2 concerns to be raised in meeting.