Overhaul to HS2 rail project will impact local road networks
The council said it has successfully secured ‘positive assurances’ from bosses behind the controversial high speed rail scheme in relation to the planned section between Crewe and Manchester, part of which are set to run through the borough.
Proposed amendments to the design include changes to highways and junctions, along with utility works.
As part of the planned alterations, there will be a temporary modification of the junction of A530 King Street, A530 Croxton Lane and B5309 King Street, between Northwich and Middlewich, to add new signals and provide a left turn on A530 Croxton Lane.
Further changes are also planned in Lostock Gralam in A559 Manchester Road, A559 Hall Lane and Station Road where the carriageway will be permanently widened to provide a left-turn lane on the south-west side of the Manchester Road.
The alterations are currently progressing through Parliament in what is known as a ‘hyrbid bill’.
Changes to hybrid bills are not unusual and can be made because of design development, new information being received, engagement and discussions with affected individuals and stakeholders, or changes introduced during the Parliamentary process.
As a result, a second set of proposed changes to the HS2 Crewe–Manchester Bill, known as Additional Provision 2 (AP2), has been introduced to Parliament by the UK Government.
Cllr Karen Shore, deputy leader of the council and cabinet member for environment, highways and transport at Cheshire West, said: “As with the original HS2 Phase 2b Bill and the first additional provision we are now examining the implications of the latest changes and considering whether a petition will be submitted.
“The construction of HS2 Phase 2b will have a significant impact on the lives, communities and countryside of west Cheshire, our detailed scrutiny of HS2 will continue so that we can ensure the impact on the borough is kept to a minimum."
She added: "We support the general principle of HS2, with the benefits it can bring for residents and local businesses and will also stand up for the rights of all those directly affected by its construction.”
Details about all the changes proposed for Cheshire West and Chester or any other information included in AP2 can be viewed here[1].
There is also now a new petitioning period which closes at 5pm on August 15, before which time anyone whose property or interests are specially and directly affected by changes can submit a petition against the proposals and have their concerns heard by the Parliamentary Select Committee. More information about the petitioning process can be found on the Parliament website here[2].