Case Studies

Connie, from Nicker Wood, 27

‘I can’t understand why the government is letting HS2 run through ancient woodland, surely we can’t destroy sites of such history and biodiversity? I live right on the borders of one of the affected sites and I’m pretty worried about all the air pollution that will come my way during the construction.’

Andrea, from Kenilworth, 66

‘I moved to Kenilworth more than 25 years ago and my children who are now grown up were raised here. I’m glad that there’s no HS2 station being built here as the traffic would become a nightmare. I’m still not very happy though as the XXX woodland where my kids used to play and go on school field trips is being destroyed. It’s a bit of a shame considering there are still plenty of schools here and children who have fewer places to play. We’re retired now and want to enjoy relaxing in our garden, I hope I’ll still be able to do that, but I’m a bit concerned that it’ll be a lot more noisy.’

Jonathan, from Tonge, 32

‘I’ve just refurbished a four bedroom house in Tonge, about two streets back from the proposed HS2 track. I went to the consultation the developer held and asked about economic compensation but there was little they were wiling to do since the property and land wasn’t going to be disrupted. Sure I’m glad I didn’t have to move but I’m still convinced that the economic value of the house will fall; nobody wants an ugly train and constant noise outside their window.’

These commentaries have been selected for their contrasting concerns over the HS2 project, ordered from the most to least environmentally concerned. Connie’s concerns are mainly to do with the condition and quality of the ecosystem under threat and the wider environment. Andrea’s concerns stem more towards the potential emotional loss and cultural loss that may be experienced, weighted 5 and 6 respectively. Finally, Jonathan demonstrates little environmental concern and is instead more concerned with the potential economic loss that he may experience.

The New Fair Metric is designed to only increase the required number of biodiversity units for compensation in accordance with the level of socio-cultural value an area receives.