HS2 Update for September 2012

HS2 . . . The Olympics . . . and a bit of your time

We punched above our weight at the Olympics…and we’re punching above our weight in the fight against HS2. The Olympics were a tremendous effort on the part of the whole nation. Every competitor spoke with great enthusiasm about the experience of being carried to a medal by the crowds. It was the best of British coming together for a common cause. And now, after 2½ years, there are serious cracks in the government’s resolve to force HS2 through the Chilterns. Now is the time to crack HS2 wide open and end this threat forever. Our Olympic competitors never gave up until they crossed the finish line. We’re going to cross the finish line and stop HS2. The volunteers at the Olympics were a happy and dedicated team. Wendover HS2 needs a team of spirited volunteers to help stop HS2. Just a bit of your time will do the trick. The more hands, the lighter the task. It’s really simple—you (and a friend) can sign up to help by contacting Marion Clayton on 01296 622 862 or mclayton@buckscc.gov.uk. Don’t miss this Olympic opportunity to make a difference to the Chilterns.

Further flaw in case for HS2

The announcement that First Group have been granted the Franchise on the West Coast mainline (WCML) undermines the Dft case for HS2 which they have always argued is for capacity reasons. In their statement First Group emphasise the unique nature of the West Coast mainline in having ‘a considerable amount of unused capacity’. It would seem that the Dft now accepts that the WCML does not have capacity issues or that it will be full in the next decade. This is further evidence that the case for HS2 is fatally flawed and we must all along with the District and County Councils continue to fight this proposal.
Councillor Steve Bowles