HS2 Update for April 2012

HS2 Public Meeting

At a packed Memorial Hall meeting on 25 February, residents were updated on Wendover HS2’s three strategic goals: our priority, which is the cancellation of HS2 through the Chilterns; but if that fails, in spite of the evidence and logical arguments against HS2, a fully-bored tunnel right through the Chilterns; and fair and improved compensation.

Brian Thompson from the Wendover HS2 Action Group explained how the green tunnel through Wendover had been lengthened, and pointed out the benefits that this would bring to large areas of Wendover. He argued that a longer tunnel was necessary to protect the rest of the village, and that a bored tunnel right through the Chilterns was a better option.

Thomas Crane from the HS2 Action Alliance gave an overview of the legal case that the Alliance proposes to bring on behalf of all the communities affected, and urged residents to give generously to the legal fund. He stressed that this was our one chance to stop HS2 in the courts. Martin Tett gave an update on the separate legal challenge being pursued by the councils of the 51M Group, and Hilary Wharf spoke warmly about the Government’s failure to provide the fair compensation scheme that was promised for those affected by HS2. Residents were asked to write to the Transport Secretary Justine Greening, calling for a fully bored tunnel through the Chilterns if HS2 goes ahead, and the fair compensation scheme promised by David Cameron.

Wendover HS2 is delighted to announce that we have now reached the initial target of £30,000 for our legal fighting fund, which is our contribution towards the legal costs of taking the Government to court by Judicial Review. Our sincere thanks go out to all those who have contributed. The fighting fund will stay open for the time being. We are also most grateful to the Parish Council for a grant of £5,000.