HS2 rail project gets the green light

WORK is all set to start on the HS2 rail link after the multi-billion pound project cleared its final hurdle in Parliament last month.
The rail line, which will carry trains a hair’s breadth from Yorkminster Drive, Chelmsley Wood, has divided opinions locally.
Opponents have been highly critical of the impact that the scheme will have on local residents, with the loss of green space and the disruption during the lengthy construction period among the main concerns.

Joe Rukin, campaign manager at the Stop HS2 action-group, claimed that “spin” had triumphed over evidence.
“This is a terrible project which will not deliver on its promises, come in years late, miles over budget, create havoc during construction and have disastrous environmental consequences.”
On the other hand supporters have welcomed the fact that the Bill has at last received Royal Assent, arguing that the first phase of the project, carrying trains between Birmingham and London, will be a major boost to the West Midlands.
Coun Bob Sleigh, a local councillor who also chairs the West Midlands Combined Authority, said that the region had been waiting for the legislation to be rubber-stamped.
“HS2 is going to happen and we’re ready to capitalise fully on the opportunities it offers to transform places, create jobs and attract investment. Royal Assent is important because it makes HS2 an absolute reality.”
Meriden MP Caroline Spelman, who spoke during the Parliamentary debate, said the impact on individual communities should not be underestimated.
While a supporter of the scheme, she has insisted there must be adequate compensation for residents.
 “You hear names like Bickenhill and Chelmsley Wood and they conjure up lovely rural locations but at no point are you any further than eight miles from the centre of Coventry or eight miles from the centre of Birmingham.
“So we’re talking about land which is very precious to those that try to keep the balance of green space and urban density... while a matter of three or four hectares of green space may not appear all that important to anyone else who is listening to this debate, for the residents of Chelmsley Wood this is an important issue.”
While construction could begin within weeks, stage one is not set to open until 2026.