Tories will 'look again' at HS2 layout if they win election says Gillan

Mar 18 2010 Buckinghamshire Advertiser

THE final route taken by HS2 would be re-examined by a Conservative government, says Chesham and Amersham MP Cheryl Gillan.

Mrs Gillan, who is to meet with secretary of state for transport Lord Adonis over the HS2 plans, said: "The Chilterns are a designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty with a rich variety of unique assets and must be protected. While we all want to see the infrastructure developed to make the UK competitive, we have to take account of our precious natural environment.

"This is a sensitive landscape and must be dealt with sensitively."

She added: "I will be doing all I can to ensure the final route - which under a Conservative government would be re-examined - does not damage the homes and environment of people in Chesham and Amersham."

Mrs Gillan asked constituents to register their views by writing to her constituency office at 7a Hill Avenue , Amersham HP6 5BD, or by email on gillanhs2chilterns@ cheshamandamersham conservatives.co.uk.

Buckinghamshire County Council voiced frustration and disappointment at the news that the rail link would cut through Buckinghamshire.

Leader David Shakespeare said: "It's ironic that HS2 will give Buckinghamshire all the environ-mental disadvantages while promoting economic benefits elsewhere. Our residents won't benefit as the trains will pass through the county without stopping, simply leaving Buckinghamshire with huge damage to our environment and green belt."

Councillor Valerie Letheren, cabinet member for transport, said: "Better and more economically beneficial routes are available and we have met with the minister to put forward a strong case for the route to follow the current West Coast Mainline. This route is supported not only by all Buckinghamshire councils, but also by Milton Keynes and the neighbouring authorities. It is very disappointing that the government has chosen to ignore the unanimous views of the local authorities involved."

The plan was welcomed by national transport campaign group Railfuture which said it recognised the environmental concerns about HS2 and that it would change the character of the Misbourne Valley, but supported the commitment for Britain to have a high speed rail network grounds of environmental, economic and social benefits.