HC 129 - High Speed Rail (London - West Midlands) Bill

Book excerpt: This report contains the final directions and recommendations of the Select Committee on the High Speed 2 Phase One Hybrid Bill after 160 days of sittings over nearly two years. Our responsibility was to hear petitions from those specially and directly affected by the Bill and, where we believed it was appropriate, to suggest modifications, assurances, undertakings or mitigation to address petitioners' concerns. The Committee directed a number of amendments to the proposed HS2 Phase One project. Notably they have directed a longer Chilterns bored tunnel, greater noise protection for Wendover, better construction arrangements in Hillingdon, and a remodelled maintenance depot at Washwood Heath to maximise local job opportunities. There should be a coherent approach to the redevelopment of Euston. In many cases not specifically mentioned in this report we have intervened to encourage fairness, practical settlements, the giving of assurances, or better mitigation. The Committee recommended amendments to the operation of the discretionary compensation schemes which they believe will result in greater fairness and a more functional property market in areas near to the proposed line. They also suggest improvements to the procedure for dealing with hybrid bills.