HS2 Monthly Report, SEP 24

Works update

·      Dump trucks are now busily moving clay spoil to a stockpile just north of Ellesborough Road.  There is noise from bulldozer tracks managing the pile audible in Wendover, but this is below the council approved levels.  The work is expected to stop between November and April due to the weather conditions affecting the haul road.

·      There is now a massive excavation just north of Bacombe Lane to accommodate the tunnel boring machine that will be used to create the drainage culvert between Grove Farm and the old cricket ground.

·      The temporary traffic lights on the Ellesborough Road diversion are still in place and causing evening rush hour traffic congestion.  Their removal has now been escalated to UK Power Networks through Greg Smith MP.

·      The works in the fields at the end of Dobbins Lane have been postponed as planning permission for the underground chamber has not been approved.  Regrettably also EKFB decided to postpone the burying of the water pipe and removal of the associated security fencing which had been agreed to be undertaken in September.

WPC activity

·      The Council has requested a meeting with Bucks Council to discuss three issues about future landscaping and land restoration prior to HS2 submitting their detailed plans which are expected next March. 

·      Five public issues were handled in the month, including the works at Bacombe Lane; the Ellesborough Road traffic lights; and ongoing work at Dobbins Lane.

Current Issues

·      We understand that HS2 has decided against changing the contractor for building the Wendover Green Tunnel, which is possibly good news as it should minimize the time taken to complete the works.  We are still trying to get a high level 5 year plan from HS2, but currently anticipate the civil engineering to continue until 2028.  

·      We are awaiting a quotation for a formal feasibility study for the Hampden Pond artesian well following an initial meeting with a Consultant Hydrogeologist.