As arguably the most affected constituency outside of London, Craig Tracey MP for North Warwickshire and Bedworth is bitterly disappointed by the announcement that HS2 will in-fact go ahead.
In an address to the commons, Prime Minister Boris Johnson confirmed that, after careful consideration, High Speed 2 has been approved by the Government as part of their efforts to ‘level up’ the infrastructure in this country.
Over the last four-and-a-half years as an MP, Craig has worked tirelessly to have the project halted. Having spoken to countless constituents who are to be disproportionately affected by the route, Craig understands that aside from the financial cost of the route, there is a real emotional cost to individuals and our local communities.
As North Warwickshire is in the unique position of being affected both by phases 1 and 2 of the project, Craig has welcomed the commitment by the Government to look again at the plan for the phase 2 element of the route, up to Leeds and Manchester. As this section is still in its infancy in terms of planning, Craig will continue to work with the Department for Transport and HS2 Ltd to mitigate the impact of this route for his constituents, as much as possible.
Craig Tracey MP commented:
‘I have never hidden my desire to have the project scrapped and I was very disappointed by the decision of the Government to go ahead with the project in its entirety.
Whilst I will remain a fierce opponent to the project, my attention will now turn to ensuring the best possible outcome for constituents. Since my election in 2015, I have sought to gain the compensation that so many of them who are most affected by the route rightfully deserve. The announcement yesterday will only increase my efforts in this area and I will work to ensure that corners aren’t cut by HS2 Ltd in delivering it.
One of my biggest criticisms has been the sheer cost of the project and consequently, I have been encouraged by the decision by the Government to instil greater discipline and financial order to the project in order to stop the budget bloating even further.
I know that improved public transport and cycling links are a key priority for the people of North Warwickshire and Bedworth, so I was pleased to hear, as part of the announcement, a £5 billion Local Transport Package to improve this infrastructure nationally. I look forward to working with the DfT in looking at how we can get some of the funding to help soften the blow of the inevitable disruption to our homes, businesses and countryside that HS2 will cause .’
