Southam people unite against HS2 plans

Southam and Kenilworth MP Jeremy Wright tackled many questions regarding HS2 from concerned members of the public and he assured them he was on their side.

He said: “Make sure you write to me constantly with your feelings so I can pass them on to the transport secretary Philip Hammond.

“Do not write to him directly as he may not answer, if you want a reply you must go through me.”

Mr Wright was then asked where the extra power would come from for the high speed trains, which he replied would be nuclear power. This then raised issues of how many power stations are in Britain and how long it would take to build more.

Issues raised included whether freight would be carried on the line, whether the business and environmental case was strong and how competition from other train lines would impact on HS2 if it was built. Everyone who attended the meeting voted against the line.

After the meeting, Southam Town Council unanimously took the same position.

Cllr Richard Waller said: “I have called for an urgent defence of our town and district against the incursion of this line as I see no benefit whatsoever but only damage to people’s homes, business and amenities, the devastation of green belt and massive loss of job opportunities.

“Southam Town Council is now in opposition to the route and I strongly urge everyone to make preparations to oppose it in the consultation to follow in the new year.

“This council are to co-operate with our neighbouring councils along the route in their opposition.”