High Speed 2 Rail Link - London to Birmingham.

Proposed timetable for HS2

March 2010 - Government publishes proposals. The full command paper can be found here.

20 May 2010 - Consultation on the exceptional hardship scheme ends.

This extremely important. The simple announcement of the government's intention will have and has had the effect of blighting property immediately. Buyers will be deterred and values reduced. Until the route is finally determined as to which see below the compensation provisions of the The Town and Country Planning Act 1990 and the Land Compensation Act 1961 will not apply.

Therefore the government is currently undertaking a consultation on the introduction of a non-statutory exceptional hardship scheme. Details of that scheme can be found here.See also HS2's FAQs. Comments, criticism and suggestions need to be sent to:-

High Speed Two Ltd - Exceptional Hardship Scheme Consultation,
55 Victoria Sreet,
London SW1H 0EU

Autumn 2010 - Government commences programme of full public consultation on:-

1.Whether to build the high speed rail link.

2.The exact route of the link between London and Birmingham.

At this point the consultation process would begin in earnest as is set out in HS2Ltd's consultation strategy document.

Probably late 2011 - government makes decision.

2011-2013 - More assessments, more detailed design and probably more consultation.

2014 - Introduction of hybrid bill before Parliament. I will return to this subject in later posts.

2019 - Start of construction.

2026 - Line opens.

Further details and ideas concerning responses to the exceptional hardship scheme can be found on the excellent website put up by the village of Ladbrooke.

This site also provides a link to the HS2 Action Alliance which provides even more assistance.

For a complete set of plans detailing the "preferred route" see here.

Also for what appears to be a comprehensive list of local action groups see here.

HS2 Alliance have a research paper on the Exceptional Hardship Scheme.

Bluespace Thinking have produced a provisional report which questions the arguments for HS2.

If you expected that the new coalition government might have second thoughts on HS2 you would be wrong.

The third runway at Heathrow will be cancelled but not the commitment to high speed trains.

http://www.politicshome.com/uk/article/9046/conservative_liberal_democrat_coalition_agreement_in_full.html

Warwickshire County Council have launched a new web page to provide updates on HS2.

www.warwickshire.gov.uk/hs2

Civic Voice is a national charity dedicated to preservation of local communities.

This organisation seems to want to work with groups and become a key stakeholder.

http://www.civicvoice.org.uk/campaigns/high-speed-rail/

I have been asked as to how the forum can help generally and in particular about the long term rights to compensation.

Here is my reply:-

Once the final route of HS2 has been decided the government must make arrangements to safeguard the route.
.
In order to safeguard the route, the Secretary of State must issue directions under the Town and Country Planning (General Development Procedure) Order 1995 (SI 1995/419). These directions are given to local planning authorities and are designed to protect the route corridors. Once the directions are made, when a third party makes a planning application which affects the route, the local planning authority must notify certain bodies including, in this case, the Secretary of State for Transport. These bodies can then assess the impact of the proposed development on the HS2 route and recommend that planning permission should either be refused or granted.
Safeguarding the HS2 route triggers the statutory blight provisions under sections 149 to 171 of the Town and Country Planning Act 1990 (TCPA 1990).

Under section 150 of the TCPA 1990 the owner of the land that is blighted by the proposals of a public authority may, if certain specified conditions are fulfilled, serve a blight notice on the authority requiring the purchase of the owner's interest in land. The authority may accept the notice and acquire the land or may object to the owner's notice on certain specified grounds by serving a counter-notice setting out the grounds of objection. Where a counter-notice is served, the owner may require the objection to be referred to the Lands Tribunal.
Compensation payable for the property will be determined under the provisions generally applicable where land is compulsorily acquired under the Land Compensation Act 1961.
In general terms the compensation will be the value of the property without taking into account the fact that the acquisition is compulsory.
Compensation for disturbance eg costs of moving will also be payable.

 
Part One of the Land Compensation Act 1973 deals with claims for loss of value after the works have been completed.
Section 10 of the Compulsory Purchase Act 1965 confers a right to compensation for injurious affection while the works are being carried out.
 
I do not believe the law forum by itself can do anything other than raise the profile of the protest.
The government will proceed with this project as you know by way of a hybrid bill.
The scope for action is limited.
We can lobby the government so that they come to the view that their proposals are not based on proper argument or fact.
There may at some stage be the opportunity to seek a judicial review prior to the passing of the bill.
Petitions can be presented to the select committee appointed by Parliament after the bill has had it's second reading.
 
I will be posting more information on judicial review and the presentation of petitions shortly.
Either way the protest must be conducted on a national basis and will be prohibitively expensive.
The government has succeeded previously with HS1 and Crossrail.

HS2 did appear in the Queen's Speech today but only in the vaguest terms.

The proposal has not met with universal joy.

http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/uk_politics/8703052.stm

The new Secretary of State for Transport Philip Hammond has announced cuts of £683 from the Department of Transport's budget although he did confirm the coalition's commitment to HS2.

http://www.railmagazine.com/news/default.asp?storyID=25

However the latest edition of RAIL reports that the coalition's support comes with a proviso that HS2 "runs via Heathrow" - in direct contravention of the current announced plans.

Philip Hammond announced on 4th June a review of all rolling stock orders stating that the previous government's prediction of the growth in passenger numbers has not materialised and that costs have soared.

http://www.railnews.co.uk/news/general/2010/06/04-hammond-orders-review-of-new.html

Fewer passengers + greater costs = HS2!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Chiltern Liberal Democrats come out against the route of HS2.

http://chilternlibdems.org.uk/pages/HS2.html

Sam Leith of the London Evening Standard thinks it is all rather amusing.

http://www.thisislondon.co.uk/standard/article-23841924-the-secret-war-on-terror-sets-a-bad-example.do

Transcript of debate in the House of Commons on 9th June 2010.

http://www.scribd.com/doc/32840643/HS2-Hansard-9-6-2010

Initial reaction to the debate.

http://www.scribd.com/doc/32890958/HS2-Response-to-Mrs-Villiers-Remarks-on-9-June1

This is a brilliant protest poster created by Malcom Davis the man responsible for the existence of this forum.

http://www.scribd.com/doc/32896581/Keep-Burton-Green

SNP Transport Minister Stewart Stevenson backs HS2.

http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/scotland/8693786.stm

So, as the politicians say, let's be clear about this.

This man for whom people in England and Wales cannot vote and who wants a completely independent Scotland wants us to lose our homes so that a few jocks can get to London more quickly.

Now that is what I call democracy.

Rising costs plus lower income.

I know what we should do.

Let's have a review to make transport "sustainable".

http://www.egovmonitor.com/node/37029

It seems Birmingham is already gearing up.

http://www.birminghampost.net/news/west-midlands-news/2010/05/27/architect-glenn-howells-on-tackling-the-eastside-challenge-65233-26535903/

The decision to build HS2 is entirely political. 

As I have mentioned in this thread the implementation of this proposal would be completely outside the planning process and will be effected by the introduction of a hybrid bill in Parliament.

Are there any legal remedies?

Judicial review may be available but what precisely is this.

Judicial review is the process by which the High Court exercises its supervisory jurisdiction over proceedings and decisions of inferior courts, tribunals and other bodies or persons who carry out quasi judicial functions or who are charged with the performance of public acts and duties.

While this supervisory jurisdiction is founded on statute (Section 20 to 31 Senior Courts Act 1981) it is largely defined by constantly evolving case law.

Judicial review is concerned with reviewing, not the merits of a decision in respect of which the application is made, but the decision making process itself.

The purpose of the remedy is to ensure that any individual is given fair treatment by an authority to which he is subject.  It is no part of that purpose to substitute the opinion of the Judiciary or individual Judges for that of the authority constituted by Law to decide the matters in question.

The Court has to decide whether a decision making authority exceeded its powers, committed an error of law, committed a breach of the rules of natural justice, reached the decision that no reasonable tribunal could have reached or abused its powers.

The control exercised by the High Court is three fold.

1.                  Illegality. 

2.                  Irrationality.

3.                  Procedural.

4.                  Legitimate expectation.

Judicial review is designed to prevent the excess and abuse of power by public authorities.

A decision is subject to judicial review if the decision maker is empowered by public law and the decision effects the private rights of some person or deprives another of some benefit which he had been allowed to enjoy and expected to enjoy in the future or which he had a legitimate expectation of acquiring or enjoying.

There can be no challenge to an Act of Parliament otherwise than by an Application for a declaration that the Act is inconsistent with European Law or the Convention on Human Rights.

1.                  Illegality arises when a decision maker:

(a)    misdirects itself in law

(b)   exercises a power wrongly

(c)    improperly purports to exercise a power that it does not have.

2.                  Irrationality.  A decision may be challenged as unreasonable if it is so unreasonable that no reasonable authority could ever have come to it.  Another way of putting it at this point is maybe to say that the decision maker in reaching its decision took into account irrelevant matters and/or failed to consider relevant matters.

3.                  Procedural Unfairness. 

(a)    The ground for Procedural Unfairness will arise if the decision maker has not properly observed the relevant Statutory Procedures such as a failure to consult or to give reasons.

(b)   There has been a failure to observe the principles of natural justice in the decision making process eg that the decision maker has shown bias or has failed to hear an affected party.

A flawed consultation process is now a common ground for challenge.  It should be noted that even if a decision maker is not required by statute to consult, it is an essential element of fair process and in any event if a decision maker chooses to consult any flaw in that consultation may vitiate its decision.

Adequate and lawful consultation requires that the consultation :

(a)      be undertaken at a time when proposals are at a formative stage.

(b)      Provide sufficient information to allow for proper and informed response.

(c)      Allows adequate time for response

(d)      Takes into account the consultation responses in a conscientious and open minded way.

There is a Cabinet Office Code of Practice on Consultation which sets out six general principles of good consultation to guide Government Departments.

4.         Legitimate Expectation.  In addition to those obligations imposed by law the Public Authority may by its own statements and/or conduct be required to act in a certain way by persons having expectation as to the way in which it will act.  Such a legitimate expectation may arise in three cases:

(a)  where the decision maker has made it clear and beyond doubt that it will adopt a particular form of procedure above and beyond that which it would otherwise have been required to adopt

(b)  where the claimant has an interest in some ultimate benefit that it hopes to obtain or retain, fairness may require the claimant to be given an opportunity to make representations.

(c)  Where the decision maker has a substantive right on which it was reasonable for the claimant to rely.

A legitimate expectation will only arise in a small number of cases.  The Courts recognise the need for public bodies to change their policies and not to fetter themselves.  It is not sufficient to establish such an expectation to show that it was previously the public bodies policy to act in a certain way.  It must be open to that public body to depart from its existing policies unless to do so in a particular case would amount to an abuse of power.

If a successful application is made to the Court the following remedies are available:

(a)                Quashing or prohibiting orders to set aside the decision.

(b)               A mandatory order requiring the public to carry out its legal duties

(c)                A prohibiting order restraining the public body from acting beyond its powers

Permission of the Court is needed to bring an application for Judicial Review and there are strict time limits for bringing a claim – usually three months from the date of the decision

Every move by government in it’s pursuit of HS2 must therefore be scrutinised in the hope that each decision can be challenged by judicial review.

Welcome to "High Speed Lite".

http://www.scribd.com/doc/33181422/HS-lite

I prefer my poster.

http://www.chilternsociety.org.uk/hs2/

A critical analysis of the case for HS2 by David McInnes.

http://www.scribd.com/doc/33426047/Analysis-of-HS2-Case

When the government decides to consult on HS2 it will have to follow the criteria and procedures set out in the "Code of Practice on Consultation".

Any failure will lead to a judicial review.

http://www.scribd.com/doc/34061163/Cabinet-Code-of-Conduct

A further critique of the business case for HS2 by Kyn Aizlewood.

http://www.scribd.com/doc/34061266/Business-Case-for-HS2

The Environmental Law Foundation clearly has doubts.

http://www.scribd.com/doc/34061097/Environmental-Impact-of-HS2

The residents of Burton Green marched in protest against HS2 on 4th July - a symbolic day.

Let us hope that the village will one day be free of the threat which will,if implemented, bring total destruction.

http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/england/10501741.stm

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=j82UxDRLWoc

Following on from the last post here is some video footage of the protest.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FtO4O5ZAhmg

Archie Taylor, a leading activist in the protest against HS2 in Burton Green, addresses and empowers the village to rise up and defeat the government's proposals.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lbsIs6Psp18

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CaI-u5dCJYk

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qJaSNTKFqwQ

This firm of solicitors tells us how to speed up the parliamentary process. After all the "political consensus" has already emerged??????

http://bdb-law.co.uk/content/v2/fast-tracking-consent-high-speed-rail

Ernst and Young seem to think there is little opposition to HS2.

http://www.building.co.uk/data/waiting-for-high-speed-2-to-get-here/5002265.article

New report from HS2 Alliance questions the need for HS2.

My only problem with this is there are no details relating to the qualifications of the authors.

http://www.scribd.com/doc/34313356/A-Case-for-Alternatives-to-HS2-June-2010-1

Philip Hammond asks HS2 Limited to examine Heathrow links.

http://www.scribd.com/doc/34326137/Hs2-Ltd-Remit-11-June-2010-1

http://www.scribd.com/doc/34326085/100624-HS2-New-Remit-Newsletter-1

Caroline Spelman just does not get it.

http://southamnews.org/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=948:hs2&catid=1:latest-news&Itemid=1

"Rail Professional" magazine picks up on Burton Green protest.

http://www.railpro.co.uk/news/?idArticles=282

" Concorde of the Rail" revealed!!!!!

But wait a minute - what happened to Concorde?

Ultimately an expensive disaster which could not be sustained.

http://www.railnews.co.uk/news/general/2010/07/15-concorde-of-the-rail-is.html

Here is a summary of the meeting held by Civic Voice at Aylesbury on the 25th June 2010.

http://www.civicvoice.org.uk/uploads/files/Civic_Voice_workshop_issues_-_June_10.pdf

Report of HS2 Stakeholder Summit - 18th June 2010.

http://www.transportforbucks.net/uploads/files/hs2_stakeholder_report.pdf

At least one Tory MP is against.

So why is Jeremy Wright sitting on the fence?

http://thelichfieldblog.co.uk/2010/07/19/lichfield-mp-calls-for-high-speed-rail-line-plan-to-be-scrapped/

Almost 7000 people signed a government petition against HS2 before it was withdrawn in the run up to the May election.

The new government's response is so predictable swatting away the objectors out of hand.

And there were people at a meeting last night telling me that people power would prevail.

I do not think so.

http://www.hmg.gov.uk/epetition-responses/petition-view.aspx?epref=railhighspeed

Now a  minister breaks rank.

http://www.bucksherald.co.uk/news/Minister-Lidington-pledges-to-defy.6431082.jp

Welcome to Knotty Green.

http://www.knottygreenagainsths2.org.uk/2010/07/knotty-green-joins-campaign-against-hs2.html

Lord Mawhinney has now thrown in his views on this debate.

He was asked by the previous government to examine any links by HS2 to Heathrow.

He assumes HS2 will happen and wants to link it with Crossrail at Old Oak Common.( Shed 81A, if anyone is old enough to remember.

http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/uknews/road-and-rail-transport/7903279/Mawhinney-calls-for-new-superhub.html

For the full report:-

http://www.dft.gov.uk/pgr/rail/pi/highspeedrail/lordmawhinneyreport/
good luck

The CPRE comments on Mawhinney.

http://www.cpre.org.uk/news/view/693

Threat of HS2 already changes development plans for Birmingham.

http://www.birminghampost.net/birmingham-business/birmingham-business-news/other-uk-business/2010/07/22/land-set-aside-for-vertical-theme-park-handed-over-to-birmingham-city-university-65233-26912125/

Hitachi in favour of HS2.

What a surprise!!!

http://www.thenorthernecho.co.uk/news/8288854.Hitachi_president_backs_train_building_campaign/

Birmingham airport expresses jealousy after Mawhinny report.

http://www.birminghamairport.co.uk/meta/news/2010/07/mawhinney-report-article.aspx

What precisely is the position of CPRE in relation to HS2?

Ambivalent to say the least.

http://www.cpre.org.uk/campaigns/transport/rail/highspeed2

Bill Bryson thinks it is simply a matter of getting people off the roads and out of the skies.

That's alright then.

http://www.facebook.com/pages/Bill-Bryson/8620543374

Hammond's statement on EHS.

http://www.dft.gov.uk/press/speechesstatements/statements/hammond20100726

The noise impact of HS2 is nicely demonstrated here.

http://southamnews.org/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=985:hs2-noise&catid=1:latest-news&Itemid=1

Some interesting comments on Mawhinney's report published last week.

http://leytr.blogspot.com/2010/07/heathrow-loses-out.html

MP for South Northants Andrea Leadsom is sponsoring a "lobby day " for HS2 action groups in Westminster ahead of the spending review in October.

http://www.aboutmyarea.co.uk/Northamptonshire/Towcester/NN12/News/Local-News/171193-Andrea-Leadsom-South-Northants-MP-Disappointed-at-Mawhinney-Report-On-HS2-High-Speed-Rail-Link

Forget 1066 - here come the Japanese.

Jobs for Brits - forget it.

http://search.japantimes.co.jp/cgi-bin/nn20100728f1.html

Knight Frank's reaction to revised EHS.

http://www.knightfrank.com/news/Government-announces-HS2-%E2%80%9CExceptional-Hardship%E2%80%9D-Scheme-but-property-owners-still-face-years-of-uncertainty-says-head-of-Knight-Frank%E2%80%99s-HS2-team-0318.aspx

HS2 alliance exposes myths surrounding this scheme.

www.hs2actionalliance.org/.../cms.../myth%20summary(1).do...

HS2 alliance criticise revised EHS scheme.

http://www.buckinghamshireexaminer.co.uk/south-bucks-news/local-buckinghamshire-examiner-news/2010/07/27/hs2-action-alliance-criticises-irrational-and-unfair-scheme-114018-26940540/

Lichfield join fight.

http://www.thisislichfield.co.uk/news/Action-group-set-fight-plans-high-speed-rail-link/article-2466824-detail/article.html

How to build tunnels.

http://www.hs2.org.uk/assets/x/58026

Top Tory threatens to quit over HS2.

http://www.bucksherald.co.uk/news/Top-Tory-threatens-to-quit.6447962.jp

Now Wales wants in on the action.

Pretty soon we will have no UK just HSTs.

http://www.walesonline.co.uk/business-in-wales/business-news/2010/07/30/unfair-for-railway-strategy-to-ignore-wales-91466-26959639/

Action groups meet HS2 Ltd.

And the result was..........

http://www.coventrytelegraph.net/news/north-warwickshire-news/2010/07/29/kenilworth-rail-campaigners-meet-company-bosses-behind-high-speed-rail-line-92746-26955532/

Coming to countryside near you.

http://www.flickr.com/photos/chilternsconservationboard

The primary purpose of government is the defence of the realm.

If there is no realm there are no schools, hospitals or transport systems.

In an uncertain world of increasing conflict it is unthinkable that our government should trade off the nuclear deterrent against conventional force requirements.

Survival of the state is paramount.

George Osbourne wants £20 billion to renew Trident.

The answer is so simple.

CANCEL HS2.

Articles from this week's Rail magazine.

http://www.scribd.com/doc/35178254/Rail-1st-August-2010-1http://www.scribd.com/doc/35178416/Rail-1st-August-2010-2

HS2 is a different animal from HS1.

http://stophs2.org/news

"Baseline Environmental Assessment" carried out by Buckinghamshire County Council now published.

Not sure what "baseline" means.

http://www.wendoverhs2.org/what-is-hs2/environmental-impact

Ladbroke at risk.

http://www.guardian.co.uk/environment/2010/aug/01/ladbroke-hs2-conservation-railway

Exploding the myths.

http://www.hs2actionalliance.org/powercms//files/cms_files/myth%20summary(3).doc

Chilterns protest walk - 11th September.

http://www.bucksherald.co.uk/17532/Chilterns-walk-will-highlight-HS2.6451769.jp

Burton Green will walk the greenway as part of their protest on 5th September.

Mrs Judges tells it like it is.

http://www.bucksherald.co.uk/news?articleid=6441670

Bucks Councillors get a taste of what is to come.

http://www.bucksfreepress.co.uk/news/8309363.Video__High_Speed_project_branded__scary_/

Lichfield confirms the fight.

http://thelichfieldblog.co.uk/2010/08/03/lichfield-group-planning-to-fight-high-speed-rail-plans/

This is how it is going to be.

http://www.bucksherald.co.uk/news?articleid=6456710

Oh No!!!

I thought Henry IV sent Owen Glendower packing.

He's back.

http://www.guardian.co.uk/cardiff/2010/aug/04/high-speed-rail-3-cardiff-bristol-great-western-partnership-philip-hammond

The tunnel at Long Itchington.

http://southamnews.org/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=1031:hs2-tunnels&catid=1:latest-news&Itemid=1

Here is a correspondent of Buckingham Examiner justifying HS2 because the world is running out of oil.

He may be sincere and well meaning but he has fallen into a capitalist trap which plays on this myth in order to extract more money from the masses.

http://www.buckinghamshireexaminer.co.uk/south-bucks-news/letters-to-the-editor/2010/08/04/hs2-alternative-to-dwindling-oil-82398-26997468/

http://business.timesonline.co.uk/tol/business/columnists/article3823656.ece

http://www.prisonplanet.com/archives/peak_oil/index.htm

Local services to be cut to make way for HS2.

Just as expected.

http://www.thisislichfield.co.uk/news/Ditch-HS2-local-trains/article-2490145-detail/article.html

It's a virus spreading all over the world.

http://sify.com/finance/b-raghu-dayal-b-india-needs-to-speed-up-on-high-speed-trains-news-columns-kilca1daghg.html

The London Evening Standard finds this amusing.

http://www.thisislondon.co.uk/lifestyle/article-23865787-labours-last-laugh-250mph-trains-to-birmingham-under-leafy-primrose-hill.do

If only.

http://www.commerce.com.tw/modules.php?modules=tradeleads&action=tradelead_inside&dbT=sellposts&ID=1053885

Jerry Marshall of the Burton Green Action Group criticises the Exceptional Hardship Scheme.

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-10996362

New face book group opposes HS2.

http://www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=114128281943543

More propaganda from Hammond.

http://www.fhr-net.co.uk/travel_news/2749/leeds_bradford_airport_may_be_affected_by_high_speed_rail/

Wales is feeling neglected.

http://waleshome.org/2010/08/gwml_electrification/

The Daily Mail joins the campaign???

http://www.dailymail.co.uk/property/article-1302820/A-London-Birmingham-rail-link-destroy-swathes-countryside-hundreds-homes-So-worth-it.html

HS2 respond to this piece in the Evening Standard.

http://www.thelawforum.co.uk/high-speed-2-rail-link-london-birmingham#comment-716

with this letter.

http://www.hs2.org.uk/assets/x/64281

HS2 Action Alliance have updated their paper on the alternative to high speed rail.

http://www.hs2actionalliance.org/powercms//files/cms_files/A%20case%20for%20alternatives%20to%20HS2%20July%202010.pdf

The public respond to the government's call for ideas on cost-cutting.

It will come as no surprise that the cancellation of HS2 is prominent.

http://regenandrenewal.blogspot.com/2010/08/10-cost-cutting-ideas-submitted-to.html

Investment - yes

HS2 - no

http://rail-news.com/2010/08/20/transport-professionals-poll-backs-spending-for-economic-growth/

EHS scheme launched today.

http://www.24dash.com/news/communities/2010-08-20-Government-launches-high-speed-rail-link-compensation-scheme

http://www.bigonglasgow.com/2010/rail-compensation-scheme-launched-223686

The website of the Lichfield Action Group is now up and running.

http://lichfieldagainsthighspeedtrains.org.uk/

Do not forget the Burton Green walk on 5th September.

http://www.kenilworthweeklynews.co.uk/news/Greenway-walk-in-Burton-Green.6486669.jp

http://www.kenilworthweeklynews.co.uk/newsl/Protestors-prepare-to-march-against.6486254.jp

Now the Terminator wants it.

http://pipsrailway.wordpress.com/2010/08/21/building-the-future/

Well-written blog entry in praise of Stareton.

http://excearula.blogspot.com/2010/08/convincing-voice-against-hs2.html

You Tube says "No to HS2".

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ltiGQT_VVk8

Recent letters in" The Independent".

http://www.independent.co.uk/opinion/letters/letters-the-hs2-project-2053404.html

More on Primrose Hill.

http://www.camdennewjournal.com/news/2010/aug/primrose-hill-residents-who-could-be-affected-hs2-rail-link-denied-compensation

More propaganda from Geengauge 21, but where is the evidence?

http://www.insidermedia.com/insider/midlands/38128-hs2-faces-logistical-problem/

Now these guys actually do get it.

http://www.railwayforum.net/showthread.php?t=8433&page=2

The Telegraph looks at the effect on properties.

There are some interesting comments also.

http://www.telegraph.co.uk/property/propertymarket/7968428/House-prices-Has-high-speed-rail-hijacked-your-home.html

Here comes the white elephant.

http://www.leamingtoncourier.co.uk/news/Highspeed-rail-critics-say-line.6497305.jp

I really love this.

Even the gun lobby have joined the debate.

Good on them.

http://www.airgunbbs.com/forums/showthread.php?t=480487

It is all about London.

Those inhabitants of Primrose Hill deserve it.

Not a thought for any one else.

http://www.public88.com/baby/baby-strollers/baby-buggies-life-style/

Great website.

http://www.stophs2.org/component/content/article/119-about-us-why-stop-hs2

If HS2 goes ahead the task with be enormous.

http://centraluser.blogspot.com/2010/08/hs2-at-northolt.html

This blogger takes the view that countries acquire international kudos by the construction of vast engineering projects - a sort of global X factor competition in which we should compete regardless of the need or cost.

http://www.building.co.uk/comment/leader/should-we-change-trains?/5004975.article

An ambiguous post by the Chiltern Society which will only encourage those who say this is a nimby campaign.

http://www.chilternsociety.org.uk/hs2/survey.php

HS2 and the M6 toll.

http://thelichfieldblog.co.uk/2010/09/08/warning-high-speed-rail-line-could-be-another-costly-failure/?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+co%2FqOgd+%28The+Lichfield+Blog%29

Let's improve what we have rather than spend £18 billion and more on HS2.

http://rail-news.com/2010/09/03/railfuture-report-britains-railways-much-more-for-much-less/

HS1 fails to impress councillors.

http://www.kentnews.co.uk/kent-news/Kent_s-_ugly_-train-line-horrifies-HS2-campaigners-newsinkent39422.aspx

Liz Williams walk.

http://www.stophs2.org/home

Burton Green on the march - again.

These people are unstoppable - believe me.

http://waltermilner.wordpress.com/2010/09/06/burton-green-ramble-and-party/

Video of Burton Green's event - 5th September 2010.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=shP3DmxT60U

New action group.

http://www.oxfordmail.co.uk/news/yourtown/bicester/8374718.Villages_unite_to_fight_off_high_speed_rail_link/

Good news???????

I just love estate agents.

http://www.partridgehomes.co.uk/news/articles/Hardship-scheme-for-houses-for-sale-good-news-800008011.aspx

This site is dedicated to the walk by Liz Williams.

http://www.walkhs2.co.uk/index.html?_ret_=return

Spelman just does not get it.

http://www.solihullnews.net/news/solihull-news/2010/09/02/call-for-debate-on-hs2-rail-line-105074-27188249/

A critique from the chairman of the Bow Group Transport Committee.

http://conservativehome.blogs.com/platform/2010/09/tony-lodge-why-labours-high-speed-rail-route-must-be-shunted-sideways.html

New walk in Warwickshire this weekend.

http://www.coventrytelegraph.net/news/coventry-news/2010/09/08/residents-planning-protests-along-hs2-route-this-weekend-92746-27226669/

And in Buckinghamshire.

http://www.buckinghamshireadvertiser.co.uk/south-buckinghamshire-news/local-buckinghamshire-advertiser-news/2010/09/08/campaigners-walk-the-line-to-halt-rail-plans-82398-27227048/

Jeremy Wright MP - our hero.

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-11234890

http://www.dft.gov.uk/pgr/rail/pi/highspeedrail/hs2ltd/recommended-route/

Burton Green gets a tunnell. Burton Green is saved. Yeah right.

http://waltermilner.wordpress.com/2010/09/09/the-hs2-route-switch-con/

Connectivity - leakage!!!????

Just who do these people think they are with their high sounding titles and two second sound bites.

http://www.propertyweek.com/news/hs2-friend-or-foe?/5005485.article

Argent , Birmingham property developer, obviously is an expert on so-called capacity problems on the present West Coast Main Line - hence HS2.

http://www.propertyweek.com/news/high-speed-2-plunges-paradise-circus-into-purgatory/5005484.article

More on the Offchurch walk with words from the redoubtable Mike Geddes.

http://www.coventrytelegraph.net/news/coventry-news/2010/09/13/campaigners-march-high-speed-rail-route-near-offchurch-92746-27257498/

Southam News - Go Joe.

http://southamnews.org/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=1241:hs2-is-moving&catid=1:latest-news&Itemid=1

A good debate on this site.

http://www.upmystreet.com/article/local-area/high-speed-rail-driving-down-prices.html

Brackley's reaction to "realignment".

http://www.buckinghamtoday.co.uk/news/local/town_could_avoid_worst_of_hs2_plans_1_1153249

New plan now available showing "realignment" in Warwickshire.

Welcome to cloud cuckoo land courtesy of Greengauge.

http://www.railnews.co.uk/news/general/2010/09/15-high-speed-rail-fares-will.html

It is all so simple to this guy in Oxford.

http://www.oxfordprospect.co.uk/HS2-THE-BATTLE-BEGINS!.html

New station = prosperity - sorted.

http://www.camdennewjournal.com/letters/2010/sep/hs2-will-aid-regeneration

Hammond- foot - shot.

http://www.thisislichfield.co.uk/news/Minister-new-rail-link-proposal/article-2648055-detail/article.html

Joe keeps pressure on.

http://www.birminghampost.net/news/west-midlands-news/2010/09/16/new-high-speed-rail-route-could-cut-through-national-agricultural-centre-65233-27275387/

No surprise here.

http://www.bucksherald.co.uk/news/Chilterns-group-sets-out-acceptable.6536043.jp

Farmers are unhappy about NAC proposals.

http://www.farmersguardian.com/home/rural-life/country-view/high-speed-rail-to-bisect-stoneleigh-park/34323.article

And golfers. Now we are getting somewhere.

http://www.kenilworthgolfclub.co.uk/hs2-and-kenilworth-golf-club

Coventry City Football Club too.

http://www.coventrytelegraph.net/news/coventry-news/2010/09/17/coventry-city-fc-director-joe-elliott-joins-fight-against-high-speed-rail-line-92746-27287966/

Comment from UKIP.

http://www.ukip.org/content/latest-news/1874-londonbirmingham-rail-link-hits-buffers

Christian Wolmar now questions viability of HS2.

http://hhag.org.uk/christian-wolmar-says.php

Midland Today report on the Offchurch walk.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TxRbjOtrXaI&feature=related

Questions from Australia.

http://melbourneurbanist.wordpress.com/2010/09/18/hsr-feasibility-study-what-should-it-address/

Philip Hammond maybe talking to the country bumpkins up and down the line today but this is really what he wants.

http://www.scribd.com/doc/37926616/Conference

Comment by Andrea Leadsom MP.

http://www.aboutmyarea.co.uk/Northamptonshire/Towcester/NN12/News/Local-News/175492-Minister-To-Walk-High-Speed-Rails-Proposed-Route-In-Northamptonshire

Comments from civil engineers.

http://www.hs2aa.com/news/uploads/New_Civil_Eng_16-Sept-2010_1.pdf

Journey times to London are being cut now on existing track.

http://www.oxfordtimes.co.uk/news/yourtown/bicester/8392455.New_track_laid/?ref=rss

At least Arup is happy.

http://www.aylesburyblog.com/?p=461

Stay united..... please!!!

http://www.thefreelibrary.com/Don't+break+rank+plea+over+HS2+bid.-a0237277950

Well he would, would he not?

http://southamnews.org/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=1273:inskip-welcomes-new-hs2-report&catid=1:latest-news&Itemid=1

HS2 versus politico-economic theory.

Let me know your views.

http://www.stevebaker.info/2010/09/hs2-meeting-with-rt-hon-philip-hammond/

Optimism here.

http://railwayeye.blogspot.com/2010/09/hs2-nimbyism-alive-and-well-in-nasty.html

Some Tories are revolting.

http://thebuckinghamshireblog.blogspot.com/2010/09/high-speed-revolt-turns-air-blue.html

Just a reminder to check out this great site.

http://stophs2.org/

Interview with Philip Hammond.

http://www.mix96.co.uk/news/review.php?article=282377

Great picture of an oracle surrounded.

http://www.aboutmyarea.co.uk/Northamptonshire/Towcester/NN12/News/Local-News/175810-Minister-Engages-With-MPs-And-HS2-Protesters-In-Brackley

Minister to resign????

http://www.buckinghamshireadvertiser.co.uk/south-buckinghamshire-news/local-buckinghamshire-advertiser-news/2010/09/23/anti-hs2-calls-for-gillan-to-resign-if-fast-trains-get-go-ahead-82398-27323394/

Suddenly I love the Lid-Dems. But not Huhne.

I wonder why.

http://www.libdemvoice.org/opinion-an-easy-25-billion-to-cut-21288.html

Primrose Hill yet again.

http://www.thisislondon.co.uk/standard/article-23881691-primrose-hils-high-speed-rail-line-fears-being-ignored.do

Central News on Philip Hammond's visit.

Does this look like a man under pressure?

http://www.ahbbs.net/play/n7fkTJ8rCRI.htm

More Tory criticism.

http://conservativehome.blogs.com/centreright/2010/09/im-baffled-by-high-speed-2.html

Reports of resignation appear to be premature.

http://www.buckinghamshireadvertiser.co.uk/south-buckinghamshire-news/highspeedrail/2010/09/24/gillan-responds-to-resignation-calls-from-anti-hs2-groups-82398-27335790/

Horse and Hound are now worried.

http://www.horseandhound.co.uk/news/397/302189.html

Wharf v. Hammond.

http://www.taxpayersalliance.com/research/2010/09/the-hs2-consultation-will-be-pointless-if-the-government-doesnt-listen-.html

UKIP hint at the hidden EU agenda behind HS2.

The post also contains new Greengauge report.

http://southamnews.org/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=1276:ukip-and-the-hs2&catid=1:latest-news&Itemid=1

South Heath against HS2 website.

http://south-heath.co.uk/cms/concrete5/

More from Joe Rukin.

http://www.leamingtonobserver.co.uk/news26754.html

In the latest "realignment" Burton Green gets a tunnel, described on HS2's map as a "new green tunnel".

Now correct me if I am wrong but most tunnels through which I have travelled are black.

What exactly is a "green tunnel"?

Has the tunnel been given this name because it is going to be in Burton Green or is it some new type of environmentally-friendly tunnel?

Help me please.

 http://www.dft.gov.uk/pgr/rail/pi/highspeedrail/hs2ltd/route/mitigatednorthernroutesection/pdf/03213.pdf

I am indebted to my friend Andy Jones who has explained to me that the  "green tunnel" essentially means deepening and widening the existing cutting and thereafter putting a roof over it which will then be turfed.

This sounds to me a very Heath-Robinson approach but what I really object to is the use of the word "green".

If a policy is green we are expected to support it come what may - after all it is going to save the planet.

Green is good - green is heartwarming - green is a polar bear playing on the ice.

This is how HS2 Ltd wants everyone to perceive their policy.

But what this really confirms is that HS2 Ltd is prepared to join in with government spin at any price to get it' own way.

The rape of Britain's countryside.

http://www.farmersguardian.com/home/rural-life/country-view/high-speed-rail-will-%E2%80%98rape%E2%80%99-the-countryside/34549.article

Here comes the new boss........

http://www.guardian.co.uk/uk/2010/sep/28/oda-chief-quits-for-network-rail

As suggested previously the HS trains will probably be built abroad. No jobs here then.

http://www.railwaypro.com/wp/?p=2679

Discussion on RailUkForum.

http://www.railforums.co.uk/showthread.php?p=503126

Lichfield rally.

http://www.thisislichfield.co.uk/news/Rally-address-blight-HS2-proposals/article-2703615-detail/article.html

Meetings switched to divide opposition.

http://www.bucksherald.co.uk/news/Protesters-fury-after-HS2-meetings.6557199.jp

Walk completed.

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-11434089

As per Ed Miliband Ruislip "get it".

http://www.uxbridgegazette.co.uk/west-london-news/local-uxbridge-news/2010/09/29/high-speed-rail-will-split-ruislip-in-half-113046-27358860/

Birmingham get ready.

http://www.propertyweek.com/news/news-by-region/west-midlands/new-masterplan-for-birmingham-city-centre/5006410.article

Hammond in Buckinghamshire.

http://www.mix96.co.uk/news/review.php?article=286640

More on Gillan and that resignation.

http://www.buckinghamshireadvertiser.co.uk/south-buckinghamshire-news/local-buckinghamshire-advertiser-news/2010/09/30/gillan-dismisses-letter-as-political-stunt-82398-27367834/

There's more at the door.

http://www.camdennewjournal.com/news/2010/sep/regent%E2%80%99s-park-estate-joins-fight-against-plans-high-speed-rail-link

Another transport journalist is opposed.

http://www.taxpayersalliance.com/research/2010/10/the-opportunity-cost-of-hs2-.html

The protest itself - 30th September 2010

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=msNA9rQyIQ4

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DxgxJtU9UlQ

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Hs1pmnUK2tA

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=f79xIRShV-0

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6OX6uxLEndQ

Joe's video at protest - 30th September 2010

http://sn114w.snt114.mail.live.com/default.aspx?wa=wsignin1.0

Referendum? Is this true?

http://www.aboutmyarea.co.uk/Northamptonshire/Towcester/NN12/News/Local-News/176624-Government-Promises-Referendum-On-HS2-If-Petition-Gets-100-000-Signatures

Lichfield next for Hammond.

http://thelichfieldblog.co.uk/2010/10/01/lichfield-rail-campaigners-to-meet-with-government-transport-minister/

Where is Oliver Cromwell when we need him?

http://www.bucksherald.co.uk/news/39Quainton-manor-facing-greatest-threat.6560843.jp

More doubts from rail enthuiast.

http://www.world-railways.co.uk/news/news_item/2/

Farmers' plans under threat.

http://www.birminghampost.net/birmingham-business/birmingham-business-news/other-uk-business/2010/10/02/warwickshire-hq-of-farming-organisation-under-threat-of-awm-cuts-65233-27381372/

350 at Lichfield meeting.

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-11458880

A report by David Lidington MP on his meeting last week with Philip Hammond.

http://www.theyblogforyou.com/2786/2010-10-02/transport-secretary-in-aylesbury

As predicted by Christian Wolmar yesterday Hammond backs Y plan and is fully committed.

http://www.christianwolmar.co.uk/2010/10/hammond-is-all-politics/

 http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-politics-11465786

Ms Williams at Tory party conference.

http://news.sky.com/skynews/Home/UK-News/HS2-Protest-Lizzy-Williams-Walked-Against-High-Speed-Rail-Plans-And-Will-Protest-At-Tory-Conference/Article/201010115750548?lpos=UK_News_First_Poilitics_Article_Teaser_Regi_1&lid=ARTICLE_15750548_HS2_Protest%3A_Lizzy_Williams_Walked_Against_High-Speed_Rail_Plans_And_Will_Protest_At_Tory_Conference

http://www.inewspad.com/2010/10/04/cuts-protest-at-tory-conference/

Seeing is believing.

http://oliversrussell.posterous.com/chiltern-society-no-hs2

More from Hammond.

http://www.guardian.co.uk/uk/2010/oct/03/high-speed-rail-network-transport

HS2 - the answer to all our problems.

But who actually prepared this report?

It does not say.

http://www.railnews.co.uk/news/general/2010/10/04-hs2-benefits-would-be-doubled.html

Is it KPMG?

http://www.birminghampost.net/news/2010/10/04/hs2-could-bring-more-than-20-000-jobs-to-birmingham-claims-centro-65233-27393470/

What are the protesters doing about getting their own consultants?

The Empire strikes back.

http://www.scribd.com/doc/38831025/rail-6-Oct-2

http://www.scribd.com/doc/38831198/Rail-6-Oct-3

A more balanced view perhaps from Steve Broadbent.

http://www.scribd.com/doc/38830203/rail-6-Oct-1

David Cameron extols the "economic benefits" but as usual does not define the specifics.

http://www.coventrytelegraph.net/news/coventry-news/2010/10/05/david-cameron-hs2-train-route-will-help-uk-economy-92746-27403306/

This is what it really means.

http://www.bucksfreepress.co.uk/news/8431412.Fears_rail_project_could_lose_man_his_dream_home/

I think this guy has an argument but perhaps he should expand on it a little.

http://spatial-economics.blogspot.com/2010/10/who-benefits-from-hs2.html

Advice for the government!!!

http://fishburn-hedges.typepad.com/dermot_finch/2010/10/high-speed-rail-no-brainer.html

Another blog but like DM she gets it.

http://battlingon.wordpress.com/2010/10/05/hs2-vital-rail-link-or-catastrophic-waste-of-time/

Christian Wolmar's latest view following Hammond's announcement earlier this week.

http://www.christianwolmar.co.uk/2010/10/high-speed-rethink-is-good-politics-but-still-a-fantasy/

More on Ms. Williams.

http://web.orange.co.uk/article/news/anti_hs2_activist_takes_message_to_tories

Where Bucks tread will Warwickshire fear to follow?

http://www.egovmonitor.com/node/38808/print

Wendover's financial analysis of HS2.

http://www.wendover-hs2.org.uk/Financial%20analysis%20of%20HS2%20Final.pdf

Our history will be destroyed.

http://www.bucksfreepress.co.uk/news/8436295.HS2_campaigner_wants_your_stories/

Funds required.

http://www.railnews.co.uk/news/general/2010/10/07-antihs2-campaigners-in-midlands-appeal.html

More evidence as to the extent of the activities affected by this proposal.

http://thelichfieldblog.co.uk/2010/10/06/lichfield-racehorse-trainer-fears-hs2-could-destroy-his-business/

Great news for foreigners as HS1 invests abroad.

http://www.independent.co.uk/travel/news-and-advice/200mph-trains-included-in-700m-eurostar-investment-2100187.html

http://money.uk.msn.com/news/city-news/articles.aspx?cp-documentid=154861469

BBC WM 4th October 2010 - David Cameron ,Philip Hammond and Lizzie Williams.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=u3WGESUUxN0

Rock against HS2.

Now we are talking.

Iron Maiden takes on the Iron Horse.

AC/DC pulls plug on electrification.

http://www.rockradio.co.uk/manchester/rock-report/business/antihs2-activist-takes-message-to-tories/fpjeh2fr/

Middleton on board.

http://www.coventrytelegraph.net/news/coventry-news/2010/10/07/middleton-villagers-angry-over-hs2-rail-plan-92746-27418970/

Calls for Gillan to resign.

http://www.buckinghamshireadvertiser.co.uk/south-buckinghamshire-news/letters-to-the-editor/2010/10/07/she-should-go-if-hs2-goes-ahead-82398-27418108/

http://www.buckinghamshireadvertiser.co.uk/south-buckinghamshire-news/letters-to-the-editor/2010/10/07/mp-has-lost-touch-with-voters-82398-27418105/

http://www.buckinghamshireadvertiser.co.uk/south-buckinghamshire-news/letters-to-the-editor/2010/10/07/she-should-stay-and-fight-for-us-82398-27418109/

Daventry.

http://www.daventrytoday.co.uk/news/local/railway_plans_are_absurd_1_1487484

Now Scotland wants in on the line but out of union.

Cake - eat.

http://stewartstevenson-oralanswersgiven.blogspot.com/2010/10/s3o-11644-high-speed-rail.html

Full marks for trying.

Latest HS2 Ltd letter.

http://www.thelawforum.co.uk/high-speed-2-rail-link-london-birmingham#comment-1066

Commuters face fare increase.

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/business-11497144

HS2 to link with HS1 obviously.

http://www.kentonline.co.uk/kentonline/news/2010/october/8/kents_international_stations.aspx

Solihull accept the myths.

http://www.solihullobserver.co.uk/news27390.html

I will be there.

http://www.midlandsbusinessnews.co.uk/2010-10/firms-get-the-lowdown-on-hs2-plans.aspx

Protest pics.

http://www.mix96.co.uk/gallery/-/hs2-protests/?start=10

Rail News download on HS2.

http://www.railnews.co.uk/news/general/2010/10/09-hs2-unwrapped-major-feature-now.html

Lichfield protest video.

I detect the voice of Joe.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PKE2VyH5iCY

Y bother??!!

http://www.telegraph.co.uk/finance/comment/alistair-osborne/8052164/Rail-plan-is-not-up-to-speed-so-Y-bother.html

Wolmar still not convinced.

http://www.christianwolmar.co.uk/2010/10/high-speed-rethink-is-good-politics-but-still-a-fantasy/#comments

On this evidence we spend £18 billion a year in an attempt to cut carbon emissions (why I have no idea) yet we are going to spend a further £18 billion plus on HS2 to increase our carbon emissions.

You can contact me from now on at the Priory.

CPO review urged in the light of HS2.

http://www.cla.org.uk/News_and_Press/News_Archive/High_Speed_2_Rail_Line/Compulsory_Purchase/1004518.htm/

Here is a novelty.

An on-line petition IN FAVOUR of HS2.

Not a very auspicious start however.

Four names only and one of those is anonymous.

http://www.gopetition.com/petition/39524.html

The petition is organised by Chris Howe.

The website is here:-

http://www.yestohs2.co.uk/

His latest article is here:-

http://www.aboutmyarea.co.uk/Cheshire/Neston/CH64/News/Local-News/177599-Why-say-yes-to-HS2

Martineau on blight.

http://www.martineau-uk.com/publication_event/updates/high-seed-rail-2-the-effect-of-blight-october-2010.pdf

Knight Frank will assist.

http://www.knightfrank.co.uk/news/Property-owners-north-of-Birmingham-must-prepare-for-high-speed-rail-line-(HS2)-extensions-says-Knight-Frank-0419.aspx

Gillan hangs on.

http://www.bucksfreepress.co.uk/news/8453026.MP_writes_to_minister_with_HS2_concerns/

The final demise of British Rail.

http://www.railnews.co.uk/news/general/2010/10/14-british-rail-to-be-wound.html

Statement from Bucks county council.

http://www.buckscc.gov.uk/bcc/news/opposition_hs2.page

UKIP  are against HS2.

http://www.bucksfreepress.co.uk/news/8450129.Farage_slams_HS2_plan_as__unwanted_/

But others see political expediency at work here.

http://timstarkey.mycouncillor.org.uk/2010/10/13/hypocrisy-over-hs2/

Joe asks for money but who exactly is collecting?

Who is bringing this judicial review and when?

http://southamnews.org/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=2765:stop-hs2-appeal&catid=1:latest-news&Itemid=1

Jeremy Wright to return to back benches if HS2 goes ahead - so says this article. First I have heard of this.

http://www.buckinghamshireadvertiser.co.uk/south-buckinghamshire-news/letters-to-the-editor/2010/10/14/no-politics-in-our-hs2-opposition-82398-27466633/

Lobby day - 25th October.

http://www.aboutmyarea.co.uk/Northamptonshire/Towcester/NN12/News/Local-News/178003-Andrea-Leadsom-MP-Organises-HS2-Rail-Lobby-Day-At-Westminster

Bucks will not benefit - official.

http://www.bucksfreepress.co.uk/news/8456472.HS2_chairman__line_unlikely_to_benefit_Bucks/

Latest technical seminars from HS2.

http://www.hs2.org.uk/publications/HS2-Ltd-Technical-Seminars-61736

Funding deal struck for HS2.

http://www.publicsectortravel.org.uk/2010/10/19/key-transport-schemes-at-risk-in-spending-review/

Here's the plan.

http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sciencetech/article-1321787/German-rail-giant-Deutsche-Bahn-sends-200mph-ICE3-train-London.html

Now his grace comes out against HS2.

http://archbishop-cranmer.blogspot.com/2010/10/coalition-cuts-compassion-and-hs2.html

Design and development contracts awarded.

http://www.nce.co.uk/major-projects/high-speed-2/hs2-ltd-awards-design-and-development-contracts/8606956.article?referrer=RSS

Further report of Bucks meeting.

http://www.buckinghamshireadvertiser.co.uk/south-buckinghamshire-news/highspeedrail/2010/10/20/chilterns-heavyweights-come-out-fighting-in-round-two-of-hs2-bout-82398-27511889/

Make no mistake.

The ruling class want this.

http://www.placewestlondon.co.uk/page.cfm/action=Archive/ArchiveID=17/EntryID=2174

Opposition = votes.

http://www.buckinghamshireadvertiser.co.uk/south-buckinghamshire-news/highspeedrail/2010/10/22/clean-sweep-for-conservatives-who-pledge-to-fight-hs2-82398-27524991/

Middleton.

http://www.coventrytelegraph.net/news/coventry-news/2010/10/21/middleton-residents-join-hs2-plan-battle-92746-27513793/

Lobby day on 25th October 2010.

The law Forum will be there.

http://southamnews.org/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=2826:hs2-campaigners-take-their-argument-to-westminster&catid=1:latest-news&Itemid=1

Support for HS2 gathers pace - one more signs the petition this week - Total........5

http://www.gopetition.com/petition/39524.html

Support for Gillan.

http://www.bucksfreepress.co.uk/news/8469646.By_election_winner_attacks_HS2__media_campaign_/

For those who have problems on potential compensation issues James Del Mar will help.

http://www.knightfrank.co.uk/news/Property-owners-must-take-action-as-the-government-reaffirms-its-commitment-to-HS2-in-the-comprehensive-spending-review-says-Knight-Frank-0427.aspx

The Chilterns.

http://www.chilternsociety.org.uk/hs2/paper01.php

Lobby day tomorrow.

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-11612776

More on Judicial Review.

http://www.guardian.co.uk/uk/2010/oct/24/hs2-railway-environment-chilterns-protest

Could this be the ultimate effect of HS2.

http://uk.biz.yahoo.com/25102010/389/pound-86-000-house-valued-pound-1.html

Lobby Day 25th October 2010.

http://www.aboutmyarea.co.uk/Northamptonshire/Towcester/NN12/News/Local-News/178743-HS2-Rail-Lobby-At-Westminster-A-Resounding-Success

 http://www.expressandstar.com/news/2010/10/25/pressure-mounts-in-lichfield-fight-against-hs2-rail-link/

http://thelichfieldblog.co.uk/2010/10/27/campaigners-hope-lobby-day-will-see-greater-scrutiny-of-rail-scheme/

http://www.itv.com/central-west/hs2-lobby47065/

http://rtn-news.blogspot.com/2010/10/high-speed-2-fight-goes-to-parliament.html

http://www.camdennewjournal.com/news/2010/oct/primrose-hill-hs2-reference-group-%E2%80%93-it%E2%80%99s-not-end-line-hs2-campaign

HS2 Ltd flowchart.

http://www.dft.gov.uk/adobepdf/about/organisation/hs2-organogram.pdf

Pressure grows in Lichfield.

http://www.expressandstar.com/news/2010/10/25/pressure-mounts-in-lichfield-fight-against-hs2-rail-link/

Contracts awarded by HS2 Ltd.

http://www.hs2.org.uk/assets/x/77044

Spaghetti Gazetti.

http://www.spaghettigazetti.com/2010/10/high-speed-rail-links-real-cost.html

With thanks to Joe Rukin.

All lobby day presentations :-
 
Theresa Villiers
http://www.vimeo.com/16222135
 
Chris Stokes
http://www.vimeo.com/16237588
 
Mike Geddes
http://www.vimeo.com/16237224
 
Mark Sullivan
http://www.vimeo.com/16236633
 
Joe Rukin
http://www.vimeo.com/16237046
 
Questions
http://www.vimeo.com/16235826
 
And the news reports;
 
BBC Northampton Breakfast Show, 26th October. Reporter Willy Gilder gives an overview of the day. Contributions from John Lee, Councillors Joan Lee, Ron Sawbridge & Martin Tett, Andrea Leadson MP, Professor Mike Geddes & Sir Christopher Prideaux.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=j_j08g7RndI
 
BBC Coventry & Warwickshire report following the Lobby Day. Contributions from Richard & Jan Kenyon, Simon Ormston, Jerry Marshall and Chris Stokes. Live interview from Victoria Embankment with Joe Rukin.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=U7DpDBfJAl4
 
ITV Central report from the Lobby Day. Interviews with Theresa Villiera MP and Lizzy Williams.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SUXTjYIB8T4
 
BBC Northampton reporter Willy Gilder reports from the Lobby Day.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=p-N67u8sYP0
 
BBC CWR report prior to the Lobby Day. Interview with Chris Stokes, a former Executive Director of the Strategic Rail Authority and former board member of the Office of Rail Regulation.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r0bNy0HGyO4

BBC CWR report from Kenilworth & Burton Green prior to the Lobby Day. Interviews with Richard & Jan Kenyon & Joe Elliott in Kenilworth. Inetrviews with Diane swindells, John Levett, Jerry Marshall & Ian Cox at Burton Green. 
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=agRAd7y9eKc
 
BBC CWR report from Stoneleigh Park (the National Agricultural Centre) prior to the Lobby Day. inetrview with Joe Rukin.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bVq6OFcHOx4

Lobby Day – 25^{th October 2010}

Birmingham - the third Heathrow runway.

London wins - exactly as predicted by Mike Geddes.

http://blogs.birminghampost.net/business/2010/10/up-up-and-away---birmingham-ai.html

What does he mean - "sort out the planning blight".

I know one way to do that  - cancel HS2.

http://liambyrne.co.uk/blog/our-fight-for-jobs/

Bit of a spat going on here.

Hide your handbags.

http://www.parliament.uk/business/committees/committees-a-z/commons-select/transport-committee/news/tehs2-baldry-response-/

Only the priveleged will benefit.

http://www.coventrytelegraph.net/forums-blogs/coventry-telegraph-letters/2010/10/28/hs2-will-be-for-privileged-few-92746-27560328/

I see however in today's Coventry Evening Telegraph that well known champagne socialist millionaire Geoffrey Robinson MP joins the campaign against HS2.

Every little helps.

Dan Byles MP.

http://www.ciltuk.org.uk/pages/industry-news/article?EDF347BE-83A0-43B4-9E42-D997387A6FD4

HS1 bidders.

http://uk.reuters.com/article/idUKTRE69S1WI20101029

New demand forecast brief.

http://www.theconstructionindex.co.uk/news/contract-news/mva-and-mott-macdonald-to-supply-high-speed-rail-forecasts

Sensation - Miss Anonymous from Leamington Spa joins campaign to support HS2.

http://www.gopetition.com/petition/39524/signatures.html

Rally at Great Missenden - 7th November.

http://www.bucksfreepress.co.uk/news/localnews/amersham/8482237.Rally_ing_cry_made_for_HS2_campaign/

http://wendoverhs2.org/news/latest-news/66-hs2-rally

Letter in The Observer - 31st October 2010

The lies behind high-speed rail

I am the district councillor for part of the Chilterns mentioned in your report about the High Speed 2 (HS2) rail line ("Court action to save beauty of Chilterns", News).

The loss of Hyde Farm and Chapel Farm would be a great shame, but could possibly be justified if HS2 were going the benefit the nation as a whole. That's the problem: there is little benefit but huge cost.

In real money, the line will run at a loss. Only if intangible benefits are given an inflated monetary value does HS2 even start to look financially attractive. At the same time, any intangible costs (to the environment, for instance) have not been counted.

All three major political parties are committed to this line. All are wrong. We are promised a consultation on HS2 in 2011. Before then, government needs to think again.

Peter Jones

District councillor for Ballinger, South Heath and Chartridge, Chesham, Bucks

Buck's Herald.

http://www.hs2aa.com/news/uploads/Bucks_Herald_27-Oct-2010_HS2_Severs_Rights_of_Way.pdf

Mawhinney lives.

http://www.lbhf.gov.uk/Directory/News/Full_steam_ahead_for_Old_Oak.asp

Dan Byles on the lobby day.

http://www.danbyles.co.uk/conservatives/news/high-speed-rail-update-dan-byles-mp

Chris Stokes on CWR.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r0bNy0HGyO4&feature=related

Hammond's U-turn on consultaion.

http://thelichfieldblog.co.uk/2010/11/01/campaigners-angered-by-disgraceful-decision-on-hs2-consultation/

http://timstarkey.mycouncillor.org.uk/2010/11/02/keeping-the-pressure-on-over-hs2/

http://www.coventrytelegraph.net/news/coventry-news/2010/11/04/warwickshire-campaigners-vow-to-de-rail-hs2-plan-92746-27600233/

My previous post in which I suggested that Ms. Villiers was not to be trusted has turned out to be true.

CPRE's positiom

http://www.mix96.co.uk/news/review.php?article=306123

http://www.birminghammail.net/news/top-stories/2010/11/05/calls-for-birmingham-rail-link-plans-to-be-binned-97319-27603445/

http://www.spaghettigazetti.com/2010/11/is-high-speed-2-on-wrong-track-in-west.html

The view of Ms. M. Webb.

http://www.coventrytelegraph.net/forums-blogs/coventry-telegraph-letters/2010/11/02/hs2-needs-to-be-stopped-92746-27586796/

Lichfield again call for rethink.

http://www.thisislichfield.co.uk/news/Petition-unites-community-calls-rethink-HS2-plans/article-2835591-detail/article.html

Loss of agricultural land and compensation.

http://www.birminghampost.net/news/west-midlands-news/2010/11/04/you-can-t-compensate-100-years-of-work-say-farmers-on-high-speed-rail-route-65233-27593434/

More from Bucks.

http://www.buckinghamshireexaminer.co.uk/south-bucks-news/local-buckinghamshire-examiner-news/2010/11/04/gillan-urges-ministers-to-consider-impact-of-hs2-114018-27602593/

New opposition website.

http://saynotohs2.org/author/Administration/

Wycombe MP elected to Transport Select Committee.

http://www.bucksfreepress.co.uk/news/localnews/wycombedistrict/8620133.Wycombe_MP_gets_High_Speed_2_scrutiny_role/

HS1 deal done.

Yes we taxpayers were.

http://www.mix96.co.uk/news/review.php?article=307625

National Trust now speaks out.

http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/uknews/road-and-rail-transport/8114604/National-Trust-anger-over-High-Speed-2-railway.html

There are alternatives.

http://www.kenilworthweeklynews.co.uk/news/local/new_information_makes_case_for_other_hs2_routes_1_1598373

Chiltern slide show.

http://www.chilternsociety.org.uk/hs2/news-nov.php

Support for HS2 grows!!!

Two signatories to the petition since 23rd October.

http://www.gopetition.com/petition/39524/signatures.html

Horse and Hound.

http://www.horseandhound.co.uk/news/397/303460.html

Bloggers

http://www.bryantpedia.com/2010/11/07/high-speed-2-railway-on-dangerous-...

http://thecynicaltendency.blogspot.com/2010/11/pain-on-train.html

http://claydonconservative.blogspot.com/2010/11/east-west-rail-strong-business-case.html

Great Missenden rally.

http://amersham.buckinghamshireadvertiser.co.uk/2010/11/huge-turnout-for-hs2-rally.html

http://www.bucksfreepress.co.uk/news/8623551.HS2_rally_attracts_thousands_but_not_the_PM/?ref=rss

Sadly delusioned in Nottingham.

http://timgarrattnottingham.co.uk/2010/11/09/the-impact-of-hs2-on-nottingham/

Daily Mail - 5th November 2020.

http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-1326333/High-speed-rail-network-ruin-English-countryside-say-campaigners.html

Joe Rukin sets out the alternatives.

http://www.mix96.co.uk/news/review.php?article=309640

HS2 will do nothing to solve overcrowding on trains.

http://www.spaghettigazetti.com/2010/11/high-speed-rail-link-more-views.html

More delusioned people.

http://www.thisischeshire.co.uk/news/8627555.MP_hits_back_in_rail_row/