Mr Wright says route plan for HS2 is wrong

SOUTHAM and Kenilworth MP Jeremy Wright has reiterated his concerns regarding HS2 in a submission to parliament.

Publishing the submission on his website, the Conservative MP has responded to the ongoing public consultation into Government plans to build a high-speed railway line through rural parts of his constituency.

Mr Wright has explained that while he agrees in the principle of high-speed rail to meet the increasing demand for rail capacity and as an alternative to air or road travel, he also believes there are flaws in the HS2 plan.

He says: “I believe HS2 is defective in two areas – the business case and the preferred route.

“I am also concerned about the effect HS2 could have on the remainder of the rail network.”

Mr Wright has spoken at length about the parts of the plan which both he and campaigners believe require the greatest attention.

These include HS2’s business case, the preferred route, its effect on other rail services, the environmental impact and compensation for those on or along the route of the proposed line.

Mr Wright says: “I have made it clear that I do not believe the current preferred route for HS2 is the right one, but I believe it would be profoundly wrong for those living along this or any other chosen route to bear the financial burden imposed by a high-speed rail line deemed to be in the national interest.

“Those whose properties will be directly and significantly affected by a new line must be properly compensated for their consequent loss.”

Priors Hardwick Action Group Against HS2 is holding a walk to celebrate “an area of special tranquillity” near the village, which is threatened by the proposed line.

The walk will start at Lower End Green on Sunday July 10 from 3pm and last about 50 minutes.

Campaigner Joy Redfern said: “This event is also a reminder that the national consultation on HS2 closes on 29th July and it is vital for every adult to respond to it indicating that they do not want this ‘white elephant’ which would waste money when there are alternative proposals using existing routes which would be cheaper, in place earlier, serve more people and not wreak devastation on our remaining countryside.”

For more information about the walk call 01327 261834 or 01327 260309

To see Mr Wright’s full submission to parliament go online.