Andrew Dismore

 

In response to a written Mayor’s question, Boris Johnson set out the “measures” he considered needed to be addressed for him to support HS2 (answer below). His response did not include respecting the rights of Camden residents and businesses to fair and adequate compensation, nor to equivalent rehousing locally for those residents who wish it, who will lose their homes as a result of HS2. It is also apparent from his answer that whilst he discusses HS2 with the Government, he is not meeting with Camden Council to see what he can do either to support their efforts  to protect the rights of local people or on any of the other HS2 issues.

 

Andrew Dismore, London Assembly member for Camden and Barnet said:

“It is very disappointing to see that Mayor Johnson does not care about local people. His only concerns are transport links for those outside the area and the environmental impact. Whilst these are important issues, they are not as important as ensuring Camden residents are protected from the worst depredations of HS2. The compensation arrangements which were recently consulted on are woefully inadequate and many local people will not be able to afford to stay in the area, where they have lived for years. Boris Johnson should reassess his priorities and stand up for Camden residents and businesses who are so disadvantaged by blight and uncertainty.

The mayor should work with Camden Council to get the best deal for local residents and businesses, not just the Minister who does not have Camden’s interests at heart.”

 

HS2

Question No: 177 / 2013

Written response from the Mayor

In 2011, I outlined my support for investing in a high speed rail network for the UK was conditional upon on a number of issues being adequately addressed. The key measures that I think necessary in order for London to benefit from HS2 are as follows:

• First, provide sufficient onward dispersal capacity at London Euston, including provision for Crossrail 2;
• Secondly, ensure that the new station at Old Oak Common is integrated with the rest of London’s transport network and planned to support the redevelopment of the surrounding area.  This requires further investment in road and rail links as well as minimising impacts on Crossrail during construction;
• Thirdly, secure a connection between HS2 and HS1 that does not impact negatively on the Overground network; and
• Fourthly, to minimise the environmental impact of the route in those affected parts of London.

I continue to speak regularly with the Secretary of State for Transport on these matters.