Cubbington woodland destruction due to HS2 is a ‘very real prospect’

Cubbington Action Group Against HS2 recently presented its petition requesting better mitigation to protect the ancient woodland and the unspoilt Leam Valley between Cubbington and Offchurch.

But Peter Delow, the group’s chairman, said: “We have just been advised that the committee of MPs that heard our petition to save the wood by tunnelling HS2 under it have decided that ‘there is unlikely to be sufficient justification for a tunnel’.

“Whilst we will continue to fight for the protection of the wood, we have to face the very real prospect that this irreplaceable environmental asset will be sacrificed to save a few million pounds on the cost of HS2.”

The group is holding walks through the wood this month and in April and May in order to raise some funds for its cause and to give people the chance to see its natural beauty before any construction work starts on the high-speed rail line.

The two-mile wlaks will start at the King’s Head pub in Church Hill with the first taking place on Sunday at 3pm.

Children and Dogs are welcome, suitable footwear is recommended and, while the walks are free, donations to the group are welcome.

Mr Delow said: “Since this and next spring are likely to be the last two occasions when we will have the opportunity to enjoy the spectacular of the spring flowers in South Cubbington Wood before the HS2 bulldozers destroy it, I urge everyone to take advantage of the opportunity that the Cubbington Action Group walks offer.”

The parliamentary committee has asked HS2 Ltd to provide details of provide a review of its position on lowering of the line in Warwickshire.

The committee has said it expects the company to take full account of the effects of construction on business and employment in Southam.

For more on Cubbington Action Group Against HS2 visit www.hs2-cubbington.net