Thank you to those who sent me a copy of the
campaign email entitled “It's Time to Stand For The Trees and ReThink HS2,
before it's too late.” My concern is that it appears that an opinion has been
formed on a prejudged perspective. This is always difficult as no amount
of explanation or facts will shift opinions.
HS2 Ltd have taken more care and trouble over the
routes and the impact it has than any other railway ever built in the UK and
possibly in the world. They care. They are obliged to under the remit given.
For instance, HS2 has focused on the "green corridor" which
will deliver the project that "respects" the natural environment.
That covers all manner of issues besides trees, but it demonstrates the care
and trouble being taken. For example, it has taken great care to move animals,
such as the Great Crested Newt, away from the line and created new
habitats.
On trees, HS2 will plant seven million new trees -
a mix of species including holly, hazel, dogwood and oak. This is double the
number that might be felled.
One aspect of this campaign that troubles me is
that train travel is one of the most environmentally friendly travel options
and it seems perverse for any environmentalist to oppose it.
We must also bear in mind that there is growing
concern over build costs and the government is urgently reviewing this. It
might not go ahead. I will take a keen interest in following this if only on
cost grounds as I am content with other aspects of the project originally
inspired by the last Labour government – other than the oft repeated routine
failure to estimate likely final costs.
For those who have troubled to send me a copy of
the campaign email I believe it shows your keen interest in our environment. My
interests are similar for I have long since been involved with various
environmental groups such as Greenpeace and Ocean Conservation hosting events
in Parliament and lobbying ministers on a range of related issues. I also take
practical steps by organising events in the constituency. Campaign emails have
become part of our democracy but far more telling is what we all actually do to
improve our environment. With that in mind I would be delighted if you would
join me and my team of volunteers on beach cleans and the like. Details of
upcoming events can be found here: https://www.stevedouble.org.uk/
