I was furious to hear the Government’s announcement this week on the HS2 route in our area.

In his speech the Secretary of State said that those affected should ‘be treated with fairness, compassion and respect’. I can assure the Secretary of State that my constituents have not been treated in this manner and have been continually ignored on this issue which stands to have a dramatic effect on homes and communities.

Furthermore I do not feel the serious concerns of the proposed route through my constituency have been properly addressed. Huge uncertainty remains about exactly how the route will impact on my constituents, particularly with the proposed site of depot in Crofton. Indeed it appears the Secretary of State visited the proposed site without the courtesy of informing me or my affected constituents.

Nearly a month ago I wrote to the Secretary of State requesting a meeting as a matter of urgency so that I can highlight my constituents’ substantial concerns and address options which may mitigate any of adverse effects of the route.

I recently received a letter from the Secretary of State, updating me on how they intend to consult. I will put the letter online later today.