Independent Air Quality Assessment Secured for HS2-Affected Communities
Residents in the Midlands villages of Water Orton and Coleshill can finally anticipate some clarity regarding air quality concerns linked to ongoing HS2 construction projects. Following persistent complaints from locals about dust and a peculiar 'fishy smell,' an independent air quality assessment has been officially approved.
Resident Complaints Prompt Action
When BirminghamLive visited Water Orton in December, numerous residents voiced their frustrations over the environmental impacts of the construction. Grandmother Gill Smith reported that the 'fishy smell' was so intense she could not hang her washing outside to dry. Another resident, Helen Carlill, mentioned needing to clean her car weekly due to excessive dust accumulation from the works.
These concerns were repeatedly brought to the attention of Rachel Taylor, the Labour MP for North Warwickshire and Bedworth. After months of advocacy, Ms. Taylor has successfully secured a commitment for an independent review.
MP's Advocacy Leads to Breakthrough
Rachel Taylor MP stated, "Since being elected, I have been relentless in pressing for a fairer deal for residents in Coleshill and Water Orton, who continue to endure significant disruption and inconvenience as a result of HS2 construction." She emphasized that air quality issues have been a recurring theme in community feedback and deserved serious attention.
"After securing a meeting between HS2’s Chief Executive and Water Orton residents, I am pleased that we now have a clear commitment to an independent review," Ms. Taylor added. "This is an important step in ensuring our community can have full confidence in how air quality is being monitored and managed, and that any necessary action is backed by robust, impartial evidence."
Imperial College London to Conduct Review
The independent air quality assessment will be carried out by the Centre for Low Emission Construction at Imperial College London. As an impartial body, Imperial College will provide a professional evaluation of air quality issues associated with the HS2 construction activities.
Following the assessment, a summary report detailing any findings and recommendations will be produced. This report will be shared with relevant stakeholders and the local community to ensure transparency and accountability. Residents will be kept informed about the review's progress and notified when outcomes and recommendations are expected.
HS2's Response to Odour Concerns
When previously questioned about the 'fishy smell' in Water Orton, an HS2 spokesperson explained that the odour was linked to the use of lime in stabilising material excavated from the Bromford tunnels. The spokesperson assured that the smell was not hazardous, noting, "Lime stabilisation is a common technique in the construction industry and allows us to reuse the material elsewhere on the project, reducing cost and avoiding extra lorries on local roads."
The spokesperson also mentioned that excavation of the Bromford tunnels was completed last month, and steps are being taken to reduce or eliminate the smell from material stockpiles.
This independent review marks a significant development for residents who have long sought assurance and action regarding the environmental impacts of the HS2 project in their communities.
