Patrick Barkham’s article approximately the HS2 route through the countryside (The long read,17 November) was excellent – a compelling overview of its effect on rural communities. But, though any article approximately the omnishambles that is HS2 is welcome, and it was incomplete. Perhaps Patrick could also now wander around Camden to see and record the devastation that HS2 will bring to urban residents: 24/7 working with all the associated noise and pollution that goes with such work through a conservation area; fragile houses – part of John Nash’s scheme for Regent’s Park – being drilled under for the purpose of installation of concrete staves; roads closed for years; tower blocks destroyed; Drummond Street (known for its Asian restaurants) destroyed; London Zoo car park taken over by HS2’s HGVs,which threatens the endangered hedgehog community.
Small local businesses will be jeopardised due to noise and lack of access, and there will be no compensation in any form for those living within the M25. An article on HS2’s effects on Camden would surely be an equally depressing but irresistible read.
Lorely Burkill
LondonContinue reading...
Source: theguardian.com