Stafford MP urges Government to consult further with the area about HS2

MP for Stafford Theo Clarke, pictured above, recently gave a speech on HS2 in the House of Commons on the High Speed Rail (West Midlands-Crew) Bill.

She highlighted the impact that HS2 is likely to have on Stafford residents and urged the Government to do more to listen to and to consult further with her constituents about HS2.

In her speech she said: “From speaking to residents since I have been an MP, I am very aware of the problems that HS2 has caused, and like my predecessor, I have done all I can to assist my constituents in dealing with HS2.

“I have already visited numerous local groups and businesses who are being affected, and I have worked with Staffordshire County Council to try to come up with solutions to the disruption that HS2 has caused, and continues to cause.

“I have also met multiple constituents whose lives have been blighted by dealings with HS2, and have tried my best to improve the situation for them. In September, I presented a petition and stood up for local residents and businesses at the House of Lords Select Committee on the High Speed Rail (West Midlands–Crewe) Bill.

“The fact remains, however, that despite the best efforts of local residents and everyone I have mentioned, HS2 will be extremely disruptive for the people of Staffordshire.

“Lords amendments 2 and 3 go some way to addressing many of my Stafford constituents’ concerns, so I am very pleased to hear the Minister’s remarks this evening. HS2 construction will disrupt the A34, the A518, the A51 and the M6 motorway, all of which will potentially cause more traffic for my constituents, which is why amendment 3, requiring consultation with my local residents, is so important.

“I am also very concerned about the feasibility of construction of the Stone railhead and maintenance base, the increase in heavy goods vehicles and the disruption, which will certainly exacerbate the situation on Staffordshire’s roads. This is another reason why Lords amendment 3 is so vital - it will ensure that local residents are adequately consulted on scheduled works.

“Lords amendment 2 reflects the importance of our ancient woodlands. At a time when Britain is leading the way on climate change and hosting COP26, we should not be seen to be cutting down trees, which is counterproductive.

“Since my election, I have consistently represented my constituents with regards to HS2, and I remain extremely disappointed by the way they have been treated by HS2. I am grateful to the Minister for meeting me on numerous occasions, and responding on specific constituency cases.

“The way that HS2 has behaved is simply unacceptable, and I am pleased that the Government are supporting the amendments and will consult with my constituents. It is right that they will be listened to.”

Andrew Stephenson MP, the Minister responsible for HS2, replied in his closing statement: “My hon. Friend the Member for Stafford (Theo Clarke) talked with passion about her constituency and the need for the consultation provided for under amendment 3.

“She lobbied me very hard about amendment 3, as she has about a number of land and property cases since being elected to this House. I pay tribute to her as a doughty champion for her constituents.”

Speaking previously about the topic, Stone MP Sir Bill Cash, a vociferous opponent of the HS2 scheme, said: “I’ve been opposed to HS2 from its very inception, completely against HS2 on principle and completely against it from financial prudence.

“It’s a complete white elephant and I’ve said it many times in the Commons.

“Particularly and more recently I’ve voted against it on every occasion, on economic grounds and specifically for my constituents. I believe there are other ways the money should be spent.

“Therefore I completely understand the petitions and support them.

“I believe the imposition of financial restraints as a result of Covid-19 makes it even more important.”

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