It’s time to have your say on HS2 environmental issues

HS2 Ltd is holding its first public exhibition in Kenilworth since launching its draft environmental statement.

The detailed document sets out the impact the high speed rail lines are expected to have under current proposed plans, and asks for opinions and ideas on how any impact on the countryside and homes can be reduced and managed.

The exhibition will run from midday to 8pm tomorrow (Monday) at Castle Farm Recreation Centre and experts will be on hand to answer questions.

And Kenilworth Action Group (KAG) against the building of HS2, are calling on everyone to come along to ensure that the voice of the community is not ignored and to save their homes and countryside from destruction.

Joe Rukin, campaigner and spokesperson for Stop HS2 in the town, said it was “vital” that people came out to find out as much as possible and see how the tracks will impact on the town and surrounding countryside.

Jan Kenyon, who lives on the highly affected Dalehouse Lane, has urged that everyone must make their voices heard as the project is “not a done deal” by the government.

“It is vital that everyone make their voices heard at this event,” she said. “HS2 is not a done deal, we must stop it altogether if we can, but at the very least we must make sure that its effects on our community are mitigated to the greatest possible extent.”

Engineers working on the project are still determining how to overcome problems such as how the line will cross Canley Brook and propose major work around Crackley to make way for the route.

Under current proposals, houses in Burton Green would have to be demolished to make way for the track and it is expected to have significant impact on Kenilworth and the surrounding areas.

A HS2 Ltd spokesperson said: “This consultation closes on 11 July 2013 and gives you the opportunity to comment on the environmental impacts assessed along the Phase One London to West Midlands line of the route, as well as the measures identified for managing and reducing them.”

Visit hhs2draftes.dialoguebydesign.net to view the detailed proposals and have your say on the environmental impact.

During the public information event, KAG will have an information booth to show affected areas and present maps to residents.

Local experts will be on hand to speak to residents about how they might be affected by the project.

And helpers are welcome to come along and volunteer to help out on the day. Chairman Richard Kenyon, said anyone who is able to meet and greet on the day, or help deliver leaflets, should contact [email protected] for details.

Despite having ‘all-party support’, the project has yet to be given the go ahead by the government. In May, the National Audit Office questioned the economic viability of the scheme and its costs.