Ealing Residents Challenge Minister Over HS2
MP hears concerns of businesses and locals
The Government Minister responsible for HS2 has been challenged by Ealing residents whose homes will be blighted by the construction of the new high speed line.
Robert Goodwill MP was invited by the Ealing and Acton MP, Rupa Huq, for businesses in Park Royal and residents from Wells House Road, Stephenson Street and Midland Terrace to raise their concerns face-to-face with the Minister.
He visited the three worst-affected residential streets and locals questioned him about the 24 hour construction programme, the amount of dirt and dust that would be produced, and the huge increase in traffic throughout the area.
At Wells House Road, Mr Goodwill was asked directly whether he himself would want to live there during the construction process. He refused to answer.
Amanda Souter, chair of the Wells House Road Residents' Association, remained sceptical after the visit, but stressed that the Government has to now support residents. She said:
''In my experience, they all come and nod their heads and then do nothing. It’s always seemed to us as though no one from the Government or HS2 is really listening to our concerns. Even when we are given assurances, they’re terribly vague. I am hoping this time will be different. The Government need to stop moving the goalposts and put their money where their mouth is.''
The Minister and HS2 staff present gave assurances to residents over long-running issues including dust, noise, and the preservation of green space.
Mr Goodwill also met businesses in Park Royal, where many face closure due to the planned compulsory purchase of their premises.
Baker Rose Surveyors, representing many firms in the area, including Sweetland, highlighted the need for the Government to support small and medium sized businesses as actively as it has larger businesses. The Minister agreed this should be the case.
Speaking after the event, Dr Huq said; ''I am grateful to the Minister for accepting my invitation to visit Ealing Central and Acton and see just how badly my constituents, whether residents or businesses, have been treated by HS2.
''Residents from Wells House Road, Stephenson Street and Midland Terrace face colossal disruption to their homes and their lives for years as a result of the building work and yet were dismissed by a HS2 representative when presenting their case in Parliament.
''It is vital that this does not happen again and that Minister now makes good on his visit, I will do all I can to ensure that he does.
''“I also welcome the Minister’s commitment to support those businesses in Park Royal, once the biggest business park in Europe, who face closure due to HS2 and its woefully inadequate compensation scheme.
''HS2 may be seen as a vital infrastructure project for the future, but the Government simply has to recognise the impact it will have on my constituents and acknowledge they must be properly compensated and supported.''
11 May 2016