5-Jun-2016

AONB petition

Do you walk, cycle or ride horses in the Chilterns ?

I have submitted a petition to the Lords HS2 select committee, to highlight the effect of construction and operation of the railway on recreational users of the AONB, and on cyclists in particular. If the scheme goes ahead as planned, then the construction works will seriously impact any activities in the Misbourne valley, between Great Missenden and Wendover, and disrupt traffic on the construction routes - A413, A355 & A4010 - for much of 2018 to 2028. Once the railway is operational, the valley will be alive to the sound of high speed trains - 18 an hour each way. There are no sound barriers proposed for footpaths (or isolated buildings), and no effective noise mitigation for the Wendover and Smalldean viaducts.

                HS2 Ltd claim I am not 'specially affected' by the scheme, and should not be heard by the committee (no locus standi) - although I frequently cycle around The Lee and Kings Ash. It would help  my case to appear, if I could claim the support of others who cycle, walk or ride in this area. If you would like to support this petition, and my right to appear, please send me an Email (hs2@jimconboy.com , or click this link to generate one). I don’t anticipate that the names of supporters will be published, only a head count.

                The aim of my petition (#601) is to have the Chilterns Tunnel extended by a further 8km, so the northern portal is situated beyond Wendover (near Nash Lee) rather than at South Heath, as described in this (Chiltern Ridges Action Group) presentation .

                Thanks -

                                Jim Conboy (Chiltern Society & Amersham Stop HS2)