THE Second Special Report by the HS2 Select Committee includes improved protection for canals along the route of the new high speed rail line after representation from Canal & River Trust.
As a consequence there will be further work by HS2 to improve the design and alignment of bridge crossings along the route and 'a presumption that the perspective of canal users will be strongly taken into account in the design of infrastructure'.
Most now resolved
This is the result of a joint effort between the Trust and canal societies, with most of the issues raised now being resolved, and the report including:
- Trent & Mersey Canal—HS2 to review the alignment of Wood End Lane to move it away from the canal
- Wyrley & Essington Canal—HS2 to fund replacement accommodation for Lichfield Cruising Club
- Birmingham & Fazeley Canal—the committee calls for a 'positive architectural legacy' from the viaduct crossing the canal at Curdworth
- Grand Union Canal, Wendover Arm—expectation that HS2 will give priority to the early investigation into the impact of the proposed railway on water supplies to the Arm and nearby Weston Turville Reservoir
- Grand Union Canal, Slough Arm—a commitment that HS2 will, if necessary, provide temporary accommodation for moorers affected by construction and will avoid any non-essential intrusion into the character of the canal area
- Grand Union Canal, Colne Valley Viaduct—needs of boat owners and other residents along the canal to be accommodated, and HS2 challenged to improve the design of the viaduct.