john bercow - response to the draft environmental statement

7/28/2019 John Bercow - Response to the Draft Environmental Statement

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Rt Hon John Bercow MPResponse to the High Speed 2 Phase One Draft Environmental Statement

ContentsEffect of HS2 on the Buckingham Constituency ............................................................................. 3

Draft Environmental Statement Overview ...................................................................................... 4

Sound ........................................................................................................................................... 4

Road realignments and obstructions to rights of ways and footpaths .......................................... 4

Assessment of impact................................................................................................................... 4

Community Forum Area 11 Stoke Mandeville to Aylesbury ..................................................... 5 Community....................................................................................................................................... 5

Cultural Heritage .............................................................................................................................. 5

Hartwell House ............................................................................................................................ 5

Glebe House, a grade II listed building ........................................................................................ 5

Hartwell Grade II* Regional Planning Guidance and Conservation Area .................................. 5

Ecology ............................................................................................................................................ 6

Landscape and Visual Assessment .................................................................................................. 6

Replacement of viaduct at Sedrup with an embankment and culvert .......................................... 6

Replacement of viaduct at Lower Hartwell with an embankment and culvert ............................ 6

Realignment of the A418 Oxford Road (Sedrup) ........................................................................ 6

Socio-economics .............................................................................................................................. 6

Sound, noise and vibration ............................................................................................................... 6

Traffic and transport ......................................................................................................................... 6

Community Forum Area 12 - Waddesdon and Quainton .............................................................. 8

Community....................................................................................................................................... 8

The Lodge, Doddershall ............................................................................................................... 8

Cultural Heritage .............................................................................................................................. 8

Waddesdon Manor Park ............................................................................................................... 8

Doddershall House ....................................................................................................................... 9

Ecology ............................................................................................................................................ 9

Grendon and Doddershall Meadows Local Wildlife Site ............................................................ 9

Further mitigation ........................................................................................................................ 9

Landscape and Visual Assessment .................................................................................................. 9

Lower the alignment between Waddesdon and Quainton ........................................................... 9

Auto-transformer feeder station and National Grid substation near Quainton ............................ 9

Socio-economics ............................................................................................................................ 10

Sound, noise and vibration ............................................................................................................. 10

Traffic and transport ....................................................................................................................... 10

Waddesdon Bypass .................................................................................................................... 10


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Station Road, Quainton .............................................................................................................. 10

Community Forum Area 13 - Calvert, Steeple Claydon, Twyford and Chetwode .................... 11

Community..................................................................................................................................... 11

Demolition of property............................................................................................................... 11

Infrastructure Maintenance Depot, Steeple Claydon ................................................................. 11

Passenger Station at Steeple Claydon ........................................................................................ 12

Satellite Maintenance Compound, School Hill .......................................................................... 12

FCC Environmental Ltd Sidings ................................................................................................ 13

Cultural Heritage ............................................................................................................................ 13

Ecology .......................................................................................................................................... 13

Finmere Wood............................................................................................................................ 14

Sheephouse Wood ...................................................................................................................... 14

Socio-economics ............................................................................................................................ 14


Twyford ...................................................................................................................................... 15

Calvert and Calvert Green .......................................................................................................... 15


Infrastructure Maintenance Depot ............................................................................................. 16

New station on East West Rail for site operatives ..................................................................... 16

East-West Rail............................................................................................................................ 16

Permanent closure of Perry Hill ................................................................................................. 16 Community Forum Area 14 Newton Purcell to Brackley ......................................................... 17

Community..................................................................................................................................... 17

Turweston playing fields ............................................................................................................ 17

Ecology .......................................................................................................................................... 17

Wildlife ...................................................................................................................................... 17

Landscape and Visual Assessment ................................................................................................ 17

Viaducts ..................................................................................................................................... 17

Pylons ......................................................................................................................................... 18 Tunnel past Turweston ............................................................................................................... 18

Socio-economics ............................................................................................................................ 18



Construction traffic .................................................................................................................... 18

Conclusion......................................................................................................................................... 20


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Effect of HS2 on the Buckingham Constituency

Since proposals were first put forward for a High Speed Rail link between London andBirmingham, it was clear to me and to my constituents that the Buckingham constituency wouldfare badly as a result. Little did we know at the time the sheer extent of devastation that this projectwould create.

In my constituency alone 10 residential properties will be demolished and 9 further properties will be rendered obsolete. Communities will be destroyed, businesses will be displaced and theenvironment will be irretrievably ruined. In my 16 years as a Member of Parliament, HS2 is thesingle biggest issue I have had to deal with and one of the few subjects on which there is near unanimous opposition amongst my constituents.

Once completed, up to 18 400m long trains will run through the area every hour all day, well intothe night. For rural Buckinghamshire, an area characterised by beautiful landscapes and bucolictranquility, HS2 is ruinous. Villages so peaceful they were once used as backdrops in the televisionseries Midsomer Murders are set to be cast into the shadow of high speed trains which will thunder

past at speeds of up to 360 kilometres per hour.

Though I have consistently fought for the project to be dropped and I continue to do so, in recenttimes I have turned my attention to ensuring my constituents get the best possible deal if theGovernment decide to proceed. It is now clear that the Government has every intention of pushingforward with High Speed 2 and it is only right that I stand with my constituents in their fight to

protect their homes, communities and livelihoods as effectively as possible.

My response to this consultation incorporates correspondence I have received from individualconstituents, local Councils and various stakeholders. I have attended as many Community Forum

meetings as I have been able to do and listened very carefully to the concerns of those present. Anumber of pragmatic suggestions have been put forward at these meetings which, while included inthe Draft Environmental Statement, have been deemed inappropriate by HS2 Ltd. Along with myconstituents, I will continue the fight to secure better mitigation to protect affected communities for generations to come.

The Chief Executive at HS2 Ltd claimed her organisation will promote high speed rail and balancecommunity, environmental and economic issues 1. The areas affected in my constituency fall mid-way between London and Birmingham and will have no tangible benefits from the High Speed railline. As you will note from my response, I firmly believe that too much attention has been paid tofocusing on the economic implications of the project - which are themselves the subject of hot

contention - and the importance of community and environment seems to have been relegated.

1 Draft Environmental Statement Draft Code of Construction Practice, Appendix 3, p64.


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Draft Environmental Statement Overview

MitigationOverall, I do not believe that the Draft Environmental Statement goes far enough in addressing thevery real concerns held by vast numbers of people not only in my constituency but across the

country. The Statement identifies elements of the Proposed Scheme as having a significant effect but fails to come up with suitable mitigation or solutions. It is simply unacceptable to say therewould be other significant residual effects but no further practical mitigation measures have beenidentified at this stage 2. If this project is to go ahead, effective solutions must be found and theyshould be devised before the project is allowed to go ahead.

Rejection of alternativesThrough speaking with my constituents and attending a number of Community Forum meetings, Iknow a number of well thought-out and pragmatic alternative options have been put forward. Thesehave, however, largely been rejected by HS2 Ltd with little justification. Where reasons have been

provided, they almost inevitably make reference to the additional costs associated with thealternative suggestion. Given the commitment to balancing the needs of the community withenvironmental and economic needs, I do not accept that a proposal should be rejected solely on costgrounds. The project has already reached staggering levels of expenditure and I believe money can

be found to fund mitigation measures which seek to protect communities. Conversely , if HS2 Ltdand the Government decide that it can affordably proceed only without such protection, plainly it isimproper for it to proceed at all.

Sound I respond in detail to aspects of this project affecting parts of my constituency. In terms of theoverall Statement, I remain deeply dissatisfied with the Operational Sound Contour Maps. Themaps indicate average noise levels (Leqs) which is all well and good if our ears hear sound inaverages. HS2 should supply peak sound figures (Lmax) in order that those living and workingclose to the line can be fully apprised of the impact of HS2 in their area. This observation hasrepeatedly been made to me by concerned constituents.

Road realignments and obstructions to rights of ways and footpathsThe areas affected in my constituency are largely rural with scattered community facilities.Residents in affected villages using amenities in surrounding areas must be assured that ease of access to vital facilities will not be compromised.

Assessment of impact On numerous occasions in the Draft Environmental Statement, the overall adverse impact oncommunities is described as moderate or minor. For people whose homes, communities andlivelihoods will be destroyed, I suggest the impact is far from minor and the HS2 Ltd assessmentshould reflect the views of those the project will affect. I am hopeful that the wording will bechanged in the Environmental Statement so it does not appear either to dismiss the devastatingimpact of HS2 overall or to second-guess the effect of HS2 on individual communities.

2 Draft Environmental Statement Community Forum Area Report 11 Stoke Mandeville and Aylesbury. 3.5.13 p42


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Community Forum Area 11 Stoke Mandeville to Aylesbury

Parts of my constituency fall within this Community Forum area, specifically the Fleet Marstonarea, Stone, Bishopstone and Terrick Hartwell, Upper Hartwell and Sedrup; the latter three beingconservation areas. In my constituency, the HS2 line will pass within 1.1km of Bishopstone, 1km

of Stone, 800m of Upper Hartwell and 330m of Lower Hartwell. The population within 1km of theroute is approximately 15,700 people 3. Significant areas of concern are the plans to run HS2 under the Oxford Road (A418) and the intention for the Proposed Scheme to cut across the grounds eastof Hartwell House, a Grade I listed building.

CommunityThe area is largely rural and agricultural with key facilities based in Aylesbury. While the villageof Stone is serviced by a local shop, Sedrup has no community facility at all and Hartwell is onlyserviced only by a riding school. The village of Stone has a local store, a village hall, two churches,a public house and two restaurants. Given the rural nature of this area, it is important that access to

facilities in surrounding villages and towns remains adequate.

Cultural HeritageThree of the conservation areas that fall within this Community Forum area also fall within theBuckingham constituency: Sedrup, Upper Hartwell and Hartwell. All construction works should becarried out with sensitivity to the valued heritage of the area.

Hartwell HouseHartwell House is a Grade I listed National Trust building and is in the top 2.5% of

significant listed buildings in the country. Dating back nearly 1000 years, the HS2 line runshazardously close to Hartwell House and appropriate mitigation must be implemented to protect this national asset whilst also considering the impact of such mitigation onsurrounding properties.

Glebe House, a grade II listed building Glebe House is described in the Draft Environmental Statement as being of moderateheritage value 4. While the heritage value may be considered moderate by HS2 Ltd, itscommunity value is significantly greater and I object most strongly to the displacement of constituents and demolition of a property which is part of a small, close-knit community.

Hartwell Grade II* Regional Planning Guidance and Conservation AreaThe Draft Environmental Statement concedes that both of these community assets willexperience significant effects 5. I note that no further mitigation measures have beenidentified at this time 6 and I urge HS2 Ltd to continue to explore further mitigation optionsin these areas. Specifically, HS2 Ltd needs to ensure that any loss of land or detriment tothe overall quality of the asset is reflected in compensation to the community.

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2011 national census data4 Draft Environmental Statement Community Forum Area Report 11 Stoke Mandeville and Aylesbury. 6.5.4 p535 Ibid, 6.5.5 p546 Ibid, 6.5.9 p54


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EcologyThe Draft Environmental Statement identifies permanent adverse effects on the conservation statusof reptiles, bats and the great crested newt owing to the loss of habitat. It is regrettable that notangible mitigation measures have been included in the DES and I am hopeful that ample andeffective measures are brought forward.

Landscape and Visual Assessment

Replacement of viaduct at Sedrup with an embankment and culvert On the basis that an embankment and culvert will be less visually intrusive 7 than aviaduct, I welcome the decision to alter plans in this area

Replacement of viaduct at Lower Hartwell with an embankment and culvert On the basis that an embankment and culvert will be less visually intrusive 8 than aviaduct, I welcome the decision to alter plans in this area

Realignment of the A418 Oxford Road (Sedrup)The Draft Environmental Statement makes clear that the realignment of the A418Oxford Road will constitute a major adverse effect on residents living onMayflower Close in Hartwell. T he magnitude of change is high 9. I urge HS2 Ltdto do all it can to ensure that residents in Hartwell are sufficiently safeguardedagainst any adverse effects caused by HS2.

Socio-economicsGiven that the residual socio-economic effects are still being assessed, I am unable tomake any comment.

Sound, noise and vibrationThe eastern part of Hartwell around Oxford Road (A418) has been earmarked for significant airborne noise effect and the forecast noise from railway operationsmay exceed the daytime threshold set by the Noise Insulation Regulations and thenight- time Interim Target identified in the World Health Organisation Guidelines 10 impacting two properties in this Community Forum Area. HS2 Ltd must make anundertaking to mitigate this problem and attenuate sound as far as is possible. If individual properties require further sound-proofing to abate completely the soundfrom HS2 and construction works associated with the project, HS2 Ltd should makecompensatory payments to owners to pay for such work to be carried out.

Traffic and transport

Realignment of the A418 Oxford Road (Sedrup)I understand that the National Trust has consulted widely and come forward with a

proposal to realign the A418, a proposal accepted by HS2 Ltd in the Draft

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Draft Environmental Statement Community Forum Area Report 11 Stoke Mandeville and Aylesbury, 2.6.38, p338 Ibid, 2.6.47, p349 Ibid, Table 9, p7110 Ibid, 11.6.12, p85


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Environmental Statement 11 . A number of my constituents living in the Hartwell areawill be seriously affected by this drastic realignment (between 250m and 300m southof existing alignment 12), especially those on Sedrup Lane, Meadoway, Willowmeadand Mayflower Close. I welcome the commitment from HS2 Ltd to con sider concerns over the proposed A418 diversion from residents at Sedrup 13 and hopethat it stays true to its word. I recognise the need to mitigate the impact on the

landscape in the area and develop with sensitivity to the environment, but I urge HS2Ltd to reconsider this matter and come forward with an option which balances theneed to protect Hartwell House with the need to ensure that local residents are notsignificantly disadvantaged as they would be by such an extreme realignment.

Realignment of Nash Lee Road (B4009)There are concerns about the potential realignment of the B4009 Nash Lee Roadnear Terrick. HS2 Ltd should undertake to engage with the local community inorder that a solution is agreed which is acceptable to those living in the vicinity. Iunderstand that an alternative solution is available which would circumvent the need

to cause significant disruption.

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Draft Environmental Statement Community Forum Area Report 11 Stoke Mandeville and Aylesbury, 2.6.21, pp 30-3112 Ibid, 2.6.56, p3513 Ibid, 2.6.63, p36


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Community Forum Area 12 - Waddesdon and Quainton

In this part of my constituency, HS2 passes the east of Waddesdon prior to meeting and followingthe alignment of the disused railway line which runs from Aylesbury to Quainton. In this area, HS2runs approximately 10km. HS2 Ltds current proposal is to realign Station Road at Quainton to thenorth-west, some 500m north of the existing road. HS2 Ltd proposes to build new bridges acrossthe HS2 line and the Quainton to Calvert line to ensure access to the Buckingham Railway Centre.

HS2 Ltd proposes an auto-transformer feeder station and a National Grid sub-station at Quainton tothe south of Edgcott/Buckingham Road, to the east side of the HS2 line. The auto-transformer feeder station is a permanent compound containing equipment which facilitates the transfer of electrical power between the National Grid and the railway. The auto-transformer feeder station is2km x 0.75km and sits adjacent to the National Grid substation which is 1.75km x 1.25km. in opencountryside.

Having attended a number of Community Forum meetings in the area, I have listened to thearguments in favour of a lower alignment which would reduce the height and size of structuresrequired for all the crossings in the area. I agree that this proposal would mitigate the noise andvisual impact of HS2 in the area, but I am also aware of the practical difficulties associated. I amconcerned that such a proposal could have an impact on additional properties in the area and I donot believe that the displacement of households should be a favoured option.

Community

The Lodge, Doddershall The demolition of properties in this area is limited to one (The Lodge,Doddershall). While I appreciate the damage could have been much worsewith multiple demolitions, I believe all steps should be taken to avoid theunnecessary demolition of a residential property. Buckinghamshire CountyCouncil has proposed a realignment of the route in this area to avoid TheLodge and I am inclined to support this proposal on the basis that, inchanging the alignment, no other properties will be adversely affected as aresult. The Draft Environmental Statement makes reference to potentialimpact on other adjacent properties 14 as a result of a changed alignment inthis area. HS2 Ltd must clarify for certain what the impact would be.

Cultural Heritage

Waddesdon Manor Park Waddesdon Manor Park dates back to the 18 th century and carries significantcultural value. T he Park will experience significant effects 15 as a result of the construction of HS2 and it is important that HS2 Ltd adopts and adheresto a Code of Construction Practice which recognises the social and historicalsensitivities attached to the various cultural assets in the area. Maturevegetation on the north east boundary of Waddesdon Manor should be

protected and maintained during construction and operation. The trees in this

14 Draft Environmental Statement Community Forum Area Report 12 Waddesdon and Quainton. 2.6.31, p2815 Ibid, 6.5.4 p. 46


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area act as effective screening, mitigating the appalling visual impacts of HS2on the Manor.

Doddershall HouseDoddershall House is a Grade II* listed building of high heritage value dating back to the 19 th Century. This cultural asset will experience significant effects as a resultof construction activity in relation to the construction of an overbridge and the auto-transformer feeder station. As above, it is important that HS2 Ltd adopts andadheres to a Code of Construction Practice which recognises the social and historicalsensitivities attached to the various cultural assets in the area.

Ecology

Grendon and Doddershall Meadows Local Wildlife SiteThe Grendon and Doddershall Meadows Local Wildlife Site carries significantecological importance. HS2 Ltd needs to ensure that any works in this area limit theloss of meadow land which supports a number of farmland birds and providesimportant breeding sites for invertebrate species of conservation concern 16.

Further mitigationI note from the Draft Environmental Statement that further mitigation measures arecurrently being considered 17 and I am hopeful that ample and effective measures are

brought forward which satisfactorily address the ecological implications of HS2.


Lower the alignment between Waddesdon and QuaintonA number of local residents have called for the vertical alignment of the HS2 line to

be lowered between Waddesdon and Quainton. This will unquestionably bringgreater protection from noise pollution and visual intrusion. As above, I am inclinedto support this proposal on the basis that, in changing the alignment, no other

properties will be adversely affected as a result. The Draft Environmental Statement

makes reference to potential impact on other adjacent properties 18 as a result of achanged alignment in this area. HS2 Ltd must clarify for certain what the impactwould be.

Auto-transformer feeder station and National Grid substation near QuaintonI appreciate the position of those residents living in the area who do not wish to seethese developments close to their properties. I would support any adjustment to theProposed Scheme which results in a reduced impact on the community and the

16 Buckinghamshires Mitigation Blueprint for HS2, Buckinghamshire County Council. p52.17 Draft Environmental Statement Community Forum Area Report 12 Waddesdon and Quainton. 7.5.18 p.5518 Draft Environmental Statement Community Forum Area Report 12 Waddesdon and Quainton. 2.6.31, p28


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environme nt. I look forward to studying HS2 Ltds further examination of thismatter.

Socio-economicsGiven that the residual socio-economic effects are still being assessed, I am unable to

make any comment.

Sound, noise and vibrationThe planned vertical alignment of HS2 in Quainton has given rise to much concernabout noise impact. I support Buckinghamshire County Councils call for a cuttingin this area which serves the purpose of both sound and visual mitigation. HS2 Ltdmust undertake to mitigate this problem and attenuate sound as far as is possible. If individual properties require further sound-proofing to abate completely the soundfrom HS2 and construction works associated with the project, HS2 Ltd should make

compensatory payments to owners to pay for such work to be carried out.


Waddesdon BypassI welcome the proposal to build a bypass around Waddesdon. In the short term, the

bypass would reduce the impact of construction vehicles associated with HS2.Heavy Goods Vehicles and construction traffic should avoid using the A41 throughWaddesdon during the construction phase; the existing local infrastructure is notstrong enough to cope with significant increase in usage. In the longer-term, a

bypass would alleviate the impact of heavy traffic flows through Waddesdon 19.Given the devastation HS2 will cause in the area, the bypass should be paid for bythe Department for Transport by way of compensation.

Station Road, QuaintonOn the basis that discussions are ongoing between Buckinghamshire County Counciland the local community about the development of alternative options in this area, Iawait the publication of the Environmental Statement before commenting on HS2Ltds proposal for Station Road. Needless to say, the design adopted should reflectthe requirements of the community which the road serves.

19 Buck inghamshires Mitigation Blueprint for HS2, Buckinghamshire County Council. p52.


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Community Forum Area 13 - Calvert, Steeple Claydon, Twyford and Chetwode

The majority of this Community Forum area falls within the Buckingham constituency. The routemoves from Sheephouse Wood to Calvert in a cutting. An over bridge at School Hill will serve the

purpose of vehicular crossing for the online diversion of School Hill. The development of HS2 inthis area will also necessitate the relocation of existing railway sidings used by the operators of theCalvert landfill site to the east of the HS2 line. An over bridge will be built adjacent to the Calvertlandfill site to facilitate access for vehicles.

The area is significantly blighted by the Infrastructure Maintenance Depot (IMD). The IMD willconsume some 37 hectares (and up to 90 hectares during the construction phase) 20 and will see thecharacter of this beautiful rural area devastated.

Beyond Steeple Claydon and the IMD, HS2 will pass under the Bicester to Bletchley line beforearriving at Twyford which it passes on culverts and embankments. The line continues in a cutting(up to 2km in length and up to 10m in depth) as it passes a number of properties in Chetwode, ahamlet which dates back to the Domesday Book.

Community

Demolition of propertyThe Proposed Scheme causes significant damage in this part of my constituency. Intotal, nine residential dwellings in Calvert and Chetwode will be demolished alongwith a significant number of farm buildings and outbuildings; 19 buildings in totalare earmarked for demolition in the area. Unquestionably, this will cause significantlocal disruption not only to the topography of the area but to the community as well.

With regards to Chetwode, the Draft Environmental Statement claims that thedemolitions would cause considerable disruption t o the occupiers and would requirethem to relocate, in terms of the effect on the local community the permanent loss of these dwellings would be minor adverse in each location and goes on to claim it isnot considered that there would be any significant effects on the community resultingfrom the demolitions 21. The demolitions in Chetwode equate to 10% of the currenthousing in the area and, as the local Member of Parliament, I beg to differ with HS2Ltds assessment. A neighbourhood as small and close -knit as Chetwode will beadversely affected by this loss of both property and community, a fact which, onreflection by HS2 Ltd, should be readily apparent. HS2 should make clear in theEnvironmental Statement that the effect of property demolitions in Chetwode issignificant.

Infrastructure Maintenance Depot, Steeple ClaydonSteeple Claydon is a thriving village dating back to the Domesday Book; Calvert is acomparatively new village, founded as a hamlet in the Victorian era to house theworkers of the local brickworks. Between these two villages is the proposed site of the IMD and railhead. It goes without saying that I wholly oppose the development

20

Draft Environmental Statement Community Forum Area Report 13 Calvert, Steeple Claydon, Twyford andChetwode. Footnote, p1621 Draft Environmental Statement Community Forum Area Report 13 Calvert, Steeple Claydon, Twyford andChetwode. 5.5.3, p46


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of the IMD at this location; the nature of the operations taking place there and therural location makes it a wholly unsuitable place to build a Depot with a requirementfor so much land. My constituents living in this area will see previously open landturned into an industrial sized storage unit surrounded by security fencing, runningup to 2km long, lit throughout the night. In addition, the site will provide temporaryworker accommodation. The Draft Environmental Statement states that the

estimate d duration of use for this facility is up to 6 years. This is by no meanstemporary for the residents in the area and I share their very real concerns about the potential impact on local amenities.

In addition, there are concerns about traffic implications as well as visual and noiseimpacts. Given the rural location, the roads around the IMD are not suitable for suchheavy usage . There are already concerns about the current road infrastructures ability to sustain existing traffic and I struggle to see how these roads will be able toaccommodate the additional HGV traffic

22 . HS2 Ltd should undertake to provide

sufficient noise protection and bunding, as well as incorporate the needs of thecommunity into the operating model for the site; this might include, inter alia, theintroduction of a travel plan to support sustainable travel by IMD staff, as suggested

by Buckinghamshire County Council 23.

Given the proximity of the IMD to Steeple Claydon, Calvert and Calvert Green, it isimportant that residents are fully apprised of the impact of its night time operations.In the final Environmental Statement, HS2 Ltd must publish the number of maintenance trains using the track at night .

Passenger Station at Steeple ClaydonIt has been suggested by local residents and Buckinghamshire County Council,

amongst others, that a passenger stop should be provided on the East West rail line atSteeple Claydon. Given that HS2 equipment is expected to make its way into thevicinity using the East West rail line, it seems logical to install a passenger halt in thearea. The installation of a station in Steeple Claydon would go a great way incompensating the community for the adverse effect HS2 will have.

Satellite Maintenance Compound, School Hill Given the proximity of this compound to the Infrastructure Maintenance Depot, I doquestion the need for this additional burden on the community, I urge HS2 Ltd toexamine the feasibility of incorporating this facility into the IMD. Whilst not

ideal, on balance I think it would be preferable if the blight was confined to one area.

I am led to believe that HS2 Ltd and Network Rail are in discussions with respect tothe development of a tunnel running from the Infrastructure Maintenance Depot andunder the East-West rail line to allow access to the eastbound HS2 line. Aside fromthe obvious long-term benefits for my constituents, in the short-term it would meanany satellite construction compound in the School Hill area could be smaller thancurrently planned and will be needed only for a much shorter period time. I fullysupport this proposal and, given the palpable benefits for both HS2 Ltd and thecommunity, I trust that it will progress .

22 Draft Environmental Statement Community Forum Area Report 13 Calvert, Steeple Claydon, Twyford andChetwode. 2.3.18, p2023 Buckinghamshires Mitigation Blueprint for HS2, Buckinghamshire County Council. p58.


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FCC Environmental Ltd SidingsHS2 Ltd proposes, in the Draft Environmental Statement, to relocate the sidings.One HS2 proposal is to move the sidings westwards, adjacent to the proposedSatellite Maintenance Compound on School Hill and in close proximity to a number

of properties in Calvert and Calvert Green24

. Clearly a refuse offloading point insuch close proximity to residential properties is completely unacceptable. As well asthe obvious odour pollution, it will lead to amplified noise levels and increasedvisual blight.

The Draft Environmental Statement makes clear that alternative options are beingexamined 25. It is important to consider the fact that FCC is currently moving itsentire operation away from residential properties in the villages of Calvert andCalvert Green. FCC has confirmed that they have land available to relocate theexisting siding facility nearer to the new facility. If the sidings are to be located atthe site proposed in the Draft Environmental Statement, it would mean that FCC is

unable to carry out its work as the School Hill bridge construction work will render the existing rail track inaccessible for an indeterminate period of time.

Were the sidings to be moved to be closer to the FCC site, it would mitigate theimpact on local residents, alleviate the need for HS2 Ltd to fund additionalmitigation in the area and allow FCC to continue to operate. In addition, a relocationof the sidings to the land close to the FCC site would eliminate the need to bringdrainage works to the west (towards Calvert). Instead, drainage could be to the northwhere access is already available (for the purposes of the Satellite MaintenanceCompound).

Cultural Heritage

Shepherds Furze Farmhouse and Chetwode Conservation AreaShepherds Furze Farmhouse and Chetwode Conservation Area are both earmarked toexperience a significant physical effect 26 while prehistoric and post-medievalarchaeological remains will be removed. A number of other assets, with heritagevalues of moderate to high, will also experience significant effects. I note that nofurther mitigation measures have been identified at this time 27 and I urge HS2 Ltdto continue to explore mitigation options to ensure that any detriment to the overallquality of the asset is reflected in compensation to the community.

Ecology

Calvert Jubilee BBOWT Nature Reserve Local Wildlife SiteThis wildlife site is dominated by a former clay pit which is one of three whichflooded after the closure of the Calvert Brickworks in 1991. The nature reserve

24 Draft Environmental Statement Community Forum Area Report 13 Calvert, Steeple Claydon, Twyford and

Chetwode. 2.2.6, p1525 Ibid, 2.7.1, p3126 Ibid,6.5.5, p4927 Ibid, 6.5.10 p50


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homes wildfowl, birds and butterflies. This area will be affected by the HS2 route(the proposed route runs along the eastern edge of the reserve) and construction work for the Infrastructure Maintenance Depot. HS2 severs the nature reserve on ashallow embankment and it is likely that there will be significant implications for wildlife. HS2 Ltd should undertake to compensate the local community for the lossof this local amenity.

Calvert Railway Station Local Wildlife SiteThe Draft Environmental Statement claims that it is unlikely that any species of interest would return to Calvert Railway Station local wildlife site on School Hill,and that there would therefore be no additional effects from the ProposedScheme 28. The local community reports the wildlife site is already growing andhosting flora and fauna. The Environmental Statement should re-examine this siteand make clear that there will be additional effects from the Proposed Scheme.When the Satellite Maintenance Compound becomes redundant, HS2 shouldreinstate a local wildlife site for the benefit of the community.

Finmere Wood Finmere Wood will be affected by HS2 and it is important that the engineering istailored to ensure minimal impact on this Special Site of Scientific Interest. Theancient woodland is also home to the Bechsteins bats, a species identified as veryrare in the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 and listed in Annex II of the ECHabitats and Species Directive. This particular species is also listed as NearlyThreatened on the International Union for Conservation of Natures Red List 29.Mitigation in this area must adequately mitigate damage to ancient woodland andseek to protect the habitat of the Bechsteins bats.

Sheephouse Wood Sheephouse Wood, also a designated SSSI, similarly homes Bechsteins bats. If thealignment of HS2 is unable to change in this area, HS2 Ltd needs to come forwardwith proposals to mitigate the impact of damaging unique ancient woodland. It isalso important to ensure that Sheephouse Wood remains unaffected by HS2. Thoughthere is no mention of land take in this area in the Draft Environmental Statement,my constituents are concerned, as a result of conversations with HS2 Ltd staff, thatthis may be the case.

Socio-economics

Given that the residual socio-economic effects are still being assessed, I am unable tomake any comment.

Sound, noise and vibration

Green Tunnel at Chetwode

28 Draft Environmental Statement Community Forum Area Report 13 Calvert, Steeple Claydon, Twyford andChetwode. 7.5.19, p5829 IUCN 2012, available at http://www.iucnredlist.org/details/14123/0
http://www.iucnredlist.org/details/14123/0http://www.iucnredlist.org/details/14123/0http://www.iucnredlist.org/details/14123/0http://www.iucnredlist.org/details/14123/0


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HS2 comes within 250m of the conservation area in Chetwode which includes theGrade I Listed Church. The Church is believed to house some of the oldest medievalstained glass windows in the country and the protection of these from vibrationscaused by HS2 is of paramount importance.

There is likely to be significant visual blight from HS2 on Chetwode. A number of

residential properties at School End, and properties within The Hermitage and PrioryHouse estates will have a clear view of the railway cutting and the over bridge. HS2should re-examine proposals, consistently argued for by me, BuckinghamshireCounty Council and local residents, to provide a cut and cover (green) tunnel inthe area.

I have raised the issue of noise impact on Chetwode with HS2 and the Departmentfor Transport on a number of occasions since it was indicated as a red dot area of high noise, even after mitigation, on the Appraisal of Sustainability document

published in 2012 30. Even after proposed mitigation, Chetwode residents will still beforced to endure significant adverse noise effects 31. Given HS2s commitment to

balance economic, environmental and community needs 32, I am very disappointedthat this desperately needed mitigation measure has been dismissed out of handsimply on the basis of cost. This is particularly frustrating as no costings are

provided in the Draft Environmental Statement.

Twyford Given the proximity of Twyford to the HS2 line, there are genuine concerns amongstresidents about the noise impacts. Like Chetwode, the line will come within 250mof Twyfords G rade I listed Medieval Church. Effective noise mitigation is essential

in this area and I support the communitys campaign to have bunding installed above pantograph level. Though I appreciate that the bund would be of significant height(some 8m), as a Member of Parliament it is my duty to reflect the views of myconstituents and I can certainly see the merit this proposal which will mitigateagainst noise and visual intrusion.

Calvert and Calvert GreenThe Draft Environmental Statement suggests that a higher noise barrier or landscaping earthworks are both further mitigation options 33. Given the level of devastation in the area, it is important to ensure that adequate noise mitigation is in

place.

I understand that published noise levels take into account only HS2 and fail toinclude noise from other sources to which HS2 will add. In this area alone, theresidents of Calvert and Calvert Green already have to endure noise from the FCCoperations, and this will be exacerbated by noise from not only HS2 but theInfrastructure Maintenance Depot and , possibly, the Satellite Maintenance

30 Appraisal of Sustainability, Volume 2, p10931 Draft Environmental Statement Community Forum Area Report 13 Calvert, Steeple Claydon, Twyford and

Chetwode. 11.6.13, p8532 32 Draft Environmental Statement Draft Code of Construction Practice, Appendix 3, p64.33 Draft Environmental Statement Community Forum Area Report 13 Calvert, Steeple Claydon, Twyford andChetwode. 11.6.16, p85


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Compound. Noise level indicators should take into account noise from other sourcesin order that local residents are fully apprised of the situation in which they will findthemselves.


Infrastructure Maintenance Depot There are concerns about traffic implications of the Infrastructure MaintenanceDepot. Given the rural location, the roads around the IMD are not suitable for suchheavy usage. There are already concerns about the current road infrastructuresability to sustain existing traffic and I struggle to see how these roads will be able toaccommodate the additional HGV traffic 34. There is no evidence that HS2 hasthought through this issue and it is frankly lamentable that the Phase One DraftEnvironmental Statement is silent on the subject.

New station on East West Rail for site operativesGiven the rail infrastructure already exists for IMD workers to travel by rail on theBicester to Bletchley line, the development of an alighting point at Calvert would,theoretically, certainly ease the capacity on the fragile road infrastructure. It alsooffers the prospect of a permanent stop at Calvert which will benefit the communityas a whole.

East-West Rail In spite of numerous requests from me and my constituents, it is still unclear howHS2 will fit in with the East-West rail line in the area. Given the proposals todevelop an Energy from Waste incinerator in the same area, I am concerned aboutthe lack of analysis of how these large projects will impact on each other.

Permanent closure of Perry Hill Perry Hill runs between the A41 and Buckingham. Given the importance of PerryHill to the local transport infrastructure, it is essential that this road remainsoperational. Furthermore, it would not be acceptable to expect a significantlyincreased volume of traffic to run through Twyford.

34 Draft Environmental Statement Community Forum Area Report 13 Calvert, Steeple Claydon, Twyford andChetwode. 2.3.18, p20


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Community Forum Area 14 Newton Purcell to Brackley

Two parishes in my constituency fall within this Community Forum area. Turweston and Westburyare both affected by HS2. In this part of my constituency, HS2 runs on a viaduct across the Ouseflood plan, less than a kilometre to the west of Westbury. The line then runs to the east of Turweston. HS2 will cross the A43 which will require changes to its alignment.

Turweston and Westbury are significantly larger than any of the other nearby villages, combiningnewly-developed properties with their historic character.

Community

Turweston playing fieldsPower cables will be required on the playing fields and village recreation grounds tothe west of Turweston. About 40% of The Queen Elizabeth II Jubilee Field, part of the Queen Elizabeth II Fields Challenge campaign, will be required for the diversion

of electricity and the construction of a cutting for the HS2 line. This bisection of thefields will leave that part of the land unusable. The Draft Environmental Statementitself acknowledges that the e ffect of this on Turweston is significant 35. Therefore,the onus is on HS2 Ltd adequately to compensate the village for this loss. As thereis no substitute land available in the vicinity to develop another playing field, it isimportant that an alternative recreational facility is secured. I am aware thatTurweston Parish Council is in discussions with HS2 Ltd and other local bodies witha view to the construction of a cycleway between parishes and this seems to be agood, valuable asset which could be paid for by a compensation payment from HS2Ltd: a moderately small gesture to offset the vast impact of HS2 in the area.

Ecology

Turweston Manor Grassland Local Wildlife SiteThis Local Wildlife Site will lose land as the proposed route cuts across thegrasslands and floodplain of the Great Ouse River on a viaduct.

WildlifeI understand the Draft Environmental Statement fails to make reference to otters,water voles and kingfishers living by the River Ouse in Westbury. An assessment of

the impact of HS2 should be conducted.


ViaductsIn this part of my constituency, two viaducts are proposed which will havesignificant adverse impact on the landscape. The viaducts need to be screened toenhance the landscape for the communities affected. Constituents living inWestbury are concerned that, though the viaduct in that area will have a noise fence

barrier but no details about what this actually means is included in the Draft

Environmental Statement.

35 35 Draft Environmental Statement Community Forum Area Report 14 Newton Purcell to Brackley. 5.5.3, p42


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PylonsTo accommodate High Speed 2, a number of National Grid pylons, located to theeast of Turweston, will need to be relocated. In the Draft Environmental Statement,the pylons have moved even closer to the village of Turweston and run across the

playing fields. By way of compensation, HS2 Ltd should make an undertaking toinstall the electric lines underground. I have raised this matter with the Chief

Executive and Head of Environment at HS2 Ltd and I would urge them to look atthis matter again. The recreation field is used by many of those living in the areaand, only recently, the local scout group used this playing field to fly kites: just oneexample of a village amenity earmarked for destruction as a result of HS2. Theundergrounding of the power lines is a very important matter for the villagersaffected and I do not believe it is a wanton or excessively luxurious request.

Tunnel past TurwestonI have made numerous representations both to HS2 Ltd and to the Department for Transport asking that a tunnel be built in this area. I note from the Draft

Environmental Statement36

that options for a tunnel were evaluated but HS2concluded that the potential environmental benefits...were not considered sufficientto justify the significant additional costs 37. Given HS2s commitment to balanceeconomic, environmental and community needs 38, I am very disappointed that thisdesperately needed mitigation measure has been dismissed out of hand simply on the

basis of cost. This is particularly frustrating as no costings are provided in the DraftEnvironmental Statement.

Socio-economics

Given that the residual socio-economic effects are still being assessed, I am unable tomake any comment.

Sound, noise and vibration

I remain dissatisfied with the lack of information in the Draft EnvironmentalStatement pertaining to noise levels. Local residents must be able to examine peak noise levels. The DES claims residential receptors...have been identified as likelyto experience a significant adverse effect from HS2 noise alone. Combined withthe additional noise pollution resulting from the realignment of A43, it is important

that my constituents are thoroughly protected from excessive noise and attenuationmeasures should reflect this.


Construction trafficThe maps accompanying the Draft Environmental Study 39 indicate that constructiontraffic will no longer run through Turweston village but along a temporary road fromthe A422. I welcome this development. There are concerns, however, that huge

36

Draft Environmental Statement Community Forum Area Report 14 Newton Purcell to Brackley. 2.6.2, p2737 Draft Environmental Statement Community Forum Area Report 14 Newton Purcell to Brackley. 2.6.10, p2838 38 Draft Environmental Statement Draft Code of Construction Practice, Appendix 3, p64.39 Map Book Community Area 14 Newton Purcell to Brackley. Maps CT-05-065 and CT-05-064.


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spoil heaps will be left where the cutting is dug and I should welcome confirmationin the Environmental Statement of how long they will remain. There is no indicationas to the height of these spoil mounds and this matter needs clarifying.


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Conclusion

I conclude by drawing on some of the key points I have made throughout this response. Myconcluding remarks are by no means comprehensive and the examiner of this submission shouldrefer to my earlier comments.

1. Mitigation measures should balance the need to protect key aspects of the areas culturalheritage, including inter alia Hartwell House, Waddesdon Park Manor and DoddershallHouse, with the needs of local residents who may be adversely affected as a result of well-meaning mitigation measures.

2. The Statement identifies elements of the Proposed Scheme as having a significant effect butfails to come up with suitable mitigation or solutions. It is simply unacceptable to say therewould be other significant residual effects but no further pract ical mitigation measureshave been identified at this stage. If this project is to go ahead, effective solutions must befound in advance and agreed by the community.

3. The train line or associated construction works will damage or completely devastate anumber of community amenities in my constituency and it is important that HS2 recognisesthe need generously and appropriately to compensate affected areas in order that thesefacilities can be replaced.

4. HS2 Ltd must give an explicit undertaking to mitigate and attenuate sound pollution as far as is possible. If individual properties require further sound-proofing completely to abatethe sound from HS2 and construction works associated with the project, HS2 Ltd shouldmake compensatory payments to owners to pay for such work to be carried out.

5. Alternative options put forward by the local community have been dismissed on the basis of their potential adverse impact. Potential impact is an insufficient justification for excluding possible mitigation options and HS2 Ltd must come forward with greater detail.

6. For people whose homes, communities and livelihoods will be destroyed, I suggest theoverall adverse impact as judged by HS2 Ltd does not begin to reflect the view of thecommunity directly affected. HS2 Ltd should not second-guess the impact of designelements on individual communities. Its responsibility is to produce proposals for mitigation or, alternatively, properly and publicly to consider recommendations from thecommunity.

7.

HS2 Ltd must come forward with suggestions as to how to improve the public transportinfrastructure in my constituency. Communities are being devastated in the name of a public transport project which from which they will see no tangible benefits. If there is anyway that affected communities can benefit from the project, it should be incorporated intothe scheme.

8. I have already identified steps the Government could take to compensate certaincommunities for the damage caused by HS2 Ltd. By way of compensation, I strongly urgethe Government to ensure that rural communities impacted by the train route are suppliedwith high speed broadband internet. Considering that the case for HS2 draws on the benefitsof economic growth through superfast connectivity between London, Birmingham,

Manchester and Leeds and my constituents will not benefit from this at all they should be entitled to superfast internet connectivity.


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9. A number of meaningful, effective mitigation options have been rejected by HS2 Ltd on thegrounds of cost. Since the Draft Environmental Statement, the Secretary of State for Transport, Rt Hon Patrick McLoughlin MP, has announced that the overall cost of the

project will be 57 billion 40 some 24 billion more than the 33 billion figure originallycited. Given the significant increase in budget since HS2 Ltd deemed multiple mitigationoptions unsuitable on grounds of cost, I am hopeful that these discarded proposals will be

looked at again in light of the new overall budget.

This Draft Environmental Statement fails to assuage any of my concerns and does not change myvociferous opposition to this monstrous project. By every yardstick, the HS2 plan fails to meet thetest of serving the public interest. The business case is utterly flawed. The environmental damagethat it will inflict upon great swathes of the countryside, including Areas of Outstanding NaturalBeauty in Buckinghamshire, will be chronic. Horrendous noise and widespread visual blight will

be a fact of life if this unaffordable, unnecessary and unwanted project goes ahead. The cost to the public purse, already obscenely large, is rising exponentially and in an era of austerity it seemsextraordinary even to countenance such an outlay.

The mitigations proposed thus far have been very limited and I share the assessment of myconstituents that HS2 has not even begun to reckon with the scale of what is required to alleviate thedetrimental impact on the area which I represent. The consultation process has regularly beenshown to be flawed, including by the Courts, and although I continue to attend Community Forummeetings, residents who participate have expressed grave dissatisfaction with the lack of responsiveness from HS2.

In short, so far as my constituents and I are concerned, the HS2 project is all pain and no gain. Imake this response in order to register the views and legitimate demands of my constituents but Ireiterate that it would be far better if the Government were to discontinue the project altogether.

40 HC Deb, 26 June 2013, c343

john bercow - response to the draft environmental statement

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