London,
14
October
2016
|
18:31
Europe/London

HS2: Community, business and road safety funds will not go far enough to address impacts on Camden

The Secretary of State for Transport has confirmed £70 million funding to support local communities, businesses and road safety along the HS2 route, but these measures will not go far enough to address the impacts of the scheme on Camden.

The Secretary of State, Chris Grayling MP, confirmed three funds for areas impacted by HS2 at a recent conference. These include a previously announced combined £40 million for the HS2 Community and Environment Fund, and the Business and Local Economy Fund. £7.5 million of these funds will be allocated to Greater London. A new £30 million road safety fund was also announced.

Councillor Phil Jones, Cabinet Member for Regeneration, Transport and Planning said: “The government has re-announced previously promised community and business funds, which do not address fundamental issues highlighted by Camden.”

The Council continues to oppose plans for HS2. The key issues we took to the House of Lords Select Committee included the need to remove dangerous lorries off of our roads by transporting more materials by rail, the need for a full redevelopment of Euston Station, and the need for fair compensation for residents and businesses. Addressing these concerns would directly reduce the impact of HS2 on Camden.

The Council secured an additional £3.5 million Camden Fund to be spent on community projects just before our appearance at the House of Lords Select Committee in September. This was more than any other local authority and was in recognition of the House of Commons Select Committee’s March report, which stated that “Camden is exceptional, and needs special treatment”.

We are awaiting the outcome of our appearance at Select Committee. Beyond the parliamentary process, the Council will continue to push HS2 Ltd to secure the best deal for Camden.

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