MEP guest speaker at national HS2 convention
Monday, January 24 2011
West Midlands MEP Mike Nattrass is to be a guest speaker at an emergency convention which aims to spread the word about the controversial High Speed Rail 2 project.
The UKIP MEP, who is a member of the EU’s Transport & Tourism Committee, has confirmed this week that he will attend the national event which is being organised by the Stop HS2 campaign.
Stop HS2 will be holding the national convention at Stoneleigh Park, in Warwickshire, on Saturday, February 19.
MEP Mike Nattrass says it is vital people get involved in the public consultation process on the HS2 scheme.
In December, Mr Nattrass wrote to Transport Secretary Philip Hammond to call on the Government to reconsider its support for the multi billion pound HS2 scheme.
Commenting on the forthcoming HS2 national convention, Mr Nattrass said: “I would urge as many people as possible to attend this event and get engaged in the public consultation process on HS2.
“This is an EU driven project which would form part of the overall expansion of the European high speed transport network.
“The rail line would be deeply damaging to the local environment. Just last week it was reported that the largest wild pear tree in Britain, which dates back 250 years and can be found near Leamington, could be chopped down to make way for the route.
“It has also been reported that the line would cut through the historic clubhouse and course at Whittington Heath Golf Club near Lichfield.
“Furthermore, this line would cost billions of pounds at a time of economic austerity and cuts.
“I look forward to attending the convention which promises to provide a major platform to highlight the concerns of local communities across the region,” he added.
Lizzy Williams, chairperson of the Stop HS2 campaign, said: “Not enough people know about HS2 or what it is. We are holding this event to try and spread the word before it is too late.
“Billions of pounds of taxpayers’ money is at stake, which could be better used, not to mention the potential devastation of the natural environment.
“We are in an emergency situation. Before we know it the consultation will be over and the Government will be wasting our money pushing on to the hybrid bill which will allow this to go ahead.”
Convention tickets cost £12 and can be ordered via the Stop HS2 website at www.stophs2.org. Alternatively, people wishing to attend the event should send a cheque made payable to STOPHS2 Ltd to 310 Cromwell Lane, Burton Green, Warwickshire, CV8 1PL.