An artist's impression of HS2
An artist's impression of HS2

Lichfield’s MP is set to take his call for a “generous” HS2 compensation scheme to the Prime Minister.

Michael Fabricant has met with the Dr Andrew McNaughton, chief engineer of the high speed rail project, to raise concerns over elements of the route which will cut through parts of Lichfield and the surrounding villages.

However, he has also vowed to use a forthcoming meeting with David Cameron to press the issue of compensation for residents affected by the new line.

He was speaking at a meeting with Lichfield District Council’s chief executive Nina Dawes, Cllr Alan White and Robert McDonald from the Stop Hs2 Action Group.

Michael Fabricant MP
Michael Fabricant MP

“I am keen that we all sing from the same hymn sheet for the benefit of Lichfield and the surrounding district so we can mitigate the effects of HS2 if construction goes ahead,” Mr Fabricant said.

“In a few weeks time I will be meeting with the Prime Minister and will re-emphasise to him the importance of a generous compensation scheme for those affected by HS2 and the need not to skimp on landscaping and other methods to minimise the visual and acoustic effect of the line.”

The Conservative MP has been a critic of the proposed route and has called for existing transport corridors to be utilised to accomodate the new high speed rail line.

However, the route might be changed by the special Parliamentary Hybrid Committee which will consider HS2 later next year.

“Given the published route which takes it near Lichfield, I raised a number of issues with the chief engineer that have been highlighted to me my members of the Stop HS2 Action Group,” said Mr Fabricant. “In particular, the height of the bridge over Cappers Lane makes it far too visible. It had to be raised because of the clearance necessary for boats travelling along the canal.

“He said there may be a solution to this which will keep the integrity of the canal.

“I also expressed concern about Phase 2 – namely, where the Y junction will be which separates the line from the Manchester and Leeds destinations and the route it will take. He gave me some reassurance regarding the north-east route to Leeds and I am hoping that this will not affect our part of Staffordshire at all.

“As far as Phase 2 up to Manchester is concerned, he implied that the route is likely to be published in the spring, but said it will not directly affect towns like Armitage with Handsacre or Kings Bromley which I know will be of considerable relief to residents.

“Stop HS2 representatives had also expressed concern over the possible siting of any temporary construction depot. Dr McNaughton said that some sort of temporary depot will be necessary, but its exact position will be negotiable.

“Finally, HS2 are setting up Community Forums and I was given assurance that a representative of our local Stop HS2 group would be invited to serve on it.”

Founder of Lichfield Live and editor of the site.