FURTHER delays to HS2 have seen the project branded a “farce” by the leader of Staffordshire County Council.
The controversial route – which cuts through parts of Whittington, Streethay and Handsacre – had been due to open by 2033.
But Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander told the House of Commons this week that the projected date was no longer achievable.
Cllr Ian Cooper, leader of Staffordshire County Council, said the news will continue to add to the disruption HS2 has caused to local communities.
He said:
“It’s incredible that we should be in this situation on such a major project without an end date in sight.
“Unfortunately, Staffordshire residents continue to suffer from this farce – they are in limbo regarding what’s happening to the works underway in their communities and they also want resolution on the issue of what is going to happen to land currently stockpiled by HS2 for the now-cancelled second phase.
“It’s wrong that this line should cause such disruption in Staffordshire, with residents obtaining no benefit.
“We will continue to fight on their behalf to get the best for them and for Staffordshire from this unwelcome state of affairs.”
The second phase of the HS2 project was ditched due to spiralling costs. Although the first phase is often referred to as London to Birmingham, it will actually see the line continue to Handsacre for a connection with the existing West Coast Main Line.
