Council petitions HS2 select committee

Hillingdon Council continued its commitment to supporting local communities by petitioning the High Speed 2 (HS2) select committee. From Monday June 15 to Wednesday June 17, the council presented information to the MPs on the select committee about mitigation measures that could reduce the impact of the section of the HS2 rail link that runs through the London Borough of Hillingdon on residents and businesses in the area. Running the HS2 line in a tunnel through Ickenham and the Colne Valley was the main request that the council asked the select committee to consider. The HS2 Bill currently proposes that the line continues above ground from Ickenham High Road. Cllr Ray Puddifoot, Leader of Hillingdon Council, said: “Hillingdon Council used the opportunity provided by the HS2 select committee to provide informed evidence to the committee based on our extensive knowledge of our borough and our strong understanding of local concerns regarding the construction and operation of the proposed HS2 line between central London and Birmingham.” Harefield residents petitioned the HS2 select committee in March 2015. After Hillingdon Council, residents in Ickenham and Ruislip and ward councillors representing Ickenham, Ruislip and Harefield will also present their petitions. If the select committee chooses to make changes the HS2 Bill or take further action as a result of hearing petitions they will make a public announcement.