London,
21
August
2019
|
16:28
Europe/London

Camden leader responds to HS2 review

The Government has today announced an independent review into the High Speed 2 programme.

The terms of reference published today confirm that the independently-led government review will look at whether and how HS2 should proceed, using all existing evidence on the project to consider:

  • its benefits and impacts
  • affordability and efficiency
  • deliverability and scope
  • its phasing, including its relationship with Northern Powerhouse Rail
“
Councillor Georgia Gould, Leader of Camden Council
“Camden’s communities have been blighted by uncertainty, upheaval and severe disruption since the very beginning of the HS2 scheme – and today’s announcement does nothing to allay this.

“Billions have already been spent but whatever happens now, the Government has a huge responsibility to Camden residents. With council homes demolished, green space taken away and a black hole forming around Euston, the Government cannot just walk away and leave us to pick up the pieces.

“If HS2 is scrapped completely, or if the line is terminated elsewhere, we would want our land back. With the land and the funding, we estimate that we could create thousands of homes and jobs in the Euston area.

“We have clear and ambitious plans for Camden’s future – and we cannot allow these to be put at risk.”
Councillor Georgia Gould, Leader of Camden Council
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A final report will be sent to the Secretary of State, with oversight from the Prime Minister and Chancellor of the Exchequer, by the autumn. The report will inform the government’s decisions on next steps for the project. Preparatory works, on the project will continue in parallel with the report’s work.