Government’s preferred HS2 route revealed

About half the length of the HS2 route has been changed from previous plans and the new proposals, which were announced today (Monday) and are due to go to consultation in February, include a direct link to the HS1 high-speed line to the Channel Tunnel.

At Ladbroke and Southam the route’s alignment has been moved eastwards away from Ladbroke and would now run in cutting and at surface level, avoiding the need for a long viaduct.

The route has been lowered by between five and ten metres at Stoneleigh and moved away from the village.

At Burton Green the route would be lowered and covered as it passes through, which HS2 has said will “reduce the visual and noise impacts on the village”.

No mention of Kenilworth, Cubbington or Offchurch, has been given in the announcement.

Speaking before Mr Hammond’s announcement Joe Rukin, chairman of the Kenilworth Action Group Against HS2 said: “HS2 is the wrong priority for the country.

“We’re being told we can’t afford the health service, we’re being told we can’t afford fire stations, we’re being told we can’t afford the police, the army, the navy or the coastguard.

“Over the last few days it’s become clear to everyone that Mr Hammond won’t break out his wallet for grit, but he’s willing to gamble £34 billion pounds on a fast train for fat cats.

“Mr Hammond says he won’t say we haven’t got the money to invest in the future, well tell that to teachers in crumbling schools, tell that to university students, tell that to any public servant getting their notice for Christmas.

“We’re now being told we can’t afford lollipop ladies or playgrounds, but like petulant children at Christmas, Messrs Cameron and Hammond are stamping their feet and demanding their shiny new train set.”

Click on the link in the top right to view the plans.