9th February 2022
Press Release from Buckinghamshire Council
We have been approached by HS2 Limited about their proposed plans to install a conveyor belt temporarily over the A413 near Small Dean, Wendover. HS2 has stated that this is part of their mass haul strategy to move earth from their Small Dean Viaduct launch compound, across the A413 London Road and the rail line and over to Small Dean Lane.
The conveyor belt would be in place and operational for two years. Their aim is to drastically reduce the number of truck movements on the A413, which without the conveyor is estimated to be around 200 lorries per day over a period of three and half years.
If the conveyor belt is built, during the construction phase HS2 would need to close the road, overnight, to reduce the impact on traffic. A signed diversion would be in place during these closures.
As the conveyor would cross the Chiltern rail line, HS2 would have to negotiate with Chiltern Railways and Network Rail for a suitable time over the Easter long weekend to do both the construction work and operate the conveyor.
Buckinghamshire Council is currently investigating what planning applications would need to be submitted by HS2 Limited to undertake this work. The Council will also be seeking reassurances, from HS2 and its contractors, that any impacts on the community, such as light and noise, are minimised.
HS2 Limited advise us that they have put together a comprehensive communications and community engagement plan to ensure all key stakeholders are aware of what works could be taking place, and when. We understand this includes meetings with local elected councillors, leaflet deliveries door-to-door, drop-in sessions for residents and articles in local newsletters.