HS2

HS2 - update

HS2 & Wendover - the Fight continues . . .

1. Mined Tunnel

Everyone agrees the best outcome for Wendover is the mined tunnel, but we are running out of time - once the earthworks commence it ceases to be an option. Very recently, two significant pieces of information have come to light. Andrew Stephenson, Minister of Transport, now accepts that the mined tunnel proposal had not been considered by Parliament, and secondly he has confirmed that the costing method used for the tunnel proposal - Rail Method of Measurement (RMM) - is indeed in use on HS2, so it can be used for comparison purposes. This now gives us the much-needed opportunity to get our mined tunnel proposal considered by Parliament.

There is reluctance however to “reopen the act” in order for Parliament to consider our detailed proposal, but it has been confirmed there is a well-used method - a Transport and Works Act Order - for adding and subtracting elements from the HS2 scheme, already used at Calvert and intended to be used at Bromford to make amends to the plans. Therefore we believe there to be a case that this Order can be used for Wendover for the very same reasons. These arguments have been put to Andrew Stephenson and Rob Butler and we await their response. Please help by writing to our local MP Rob Butler to urge him to support us in getting this proposal in front of Parliament : rob.butler.mp@parliament.uk

2. Noise, Traffic & Aquifer

There remains a very real threat of flooding from slicing through the Coombe Hill aquifer for a kilometer, with significant damage to the SSSI. At the same time, the noise levels will be above WHO standards threatening over 800 homes in north Wendover. Both of these issues are being aggressively pursued with a pragmatic, cost-effective proposal of a ‘retained cutting’ north of Wendover – this proposal will address both the aquifer and noise issues and the WHS2 and WPC working groups are pushing at every level to ensure these proposals are heard at every level of government.

Meetings continue with the Planning department at Buckinghamshire Council (BC) to discuss schedule 17 and whilst conversations between BC and HS2 are confidential until their submissions are made, once they submit, they will be in the public domain. To aid this process, WHS2 & WPC continue to push for answers to several questions which we rely on BC to put to HS2, as part of their due diligence for schedule 17 preparation.

Whilst this is happening, a public survey about noise mitigation options will be out next month - the more people who express a view, the more likely we are to have an impact, so watch this space. Please support us with our social media and email campaigns by volunteering your time and expertise - contact: wendoverhs2@ btinternet.com.

3. Environment Mitigation

Translocation of newts at Nash Lee – this is being done sensitively and safely, but sadly it does involve the removal of 800m of hedgerow. Relocation of badger setts at Small Dean Lane & Ellesborough Road – these are underway. Archaeological work - Kings Lane was closed to allow HS2’s contractors to build a temporary compound to support planned archaeological work near Bowood Lane which is ongoing. Clearance of ancient woodland - Jones Hill (Roald Dahl’s) Wood – Many species of bat are present in the wood, including rare and protected roosts, at least three families of badgers, hazel dormice, one active fox den, 40+ species of moth and countless species of insects and pollinators, hundreds of species of trees, flora & fauna - which are all under threat. (See also HS2 and Me.)