HS2 has agreed to introduce further mitigation measures to stop a foul odour emanating from the HS2 construction site, after Rachel intervened to secure action on behalf of residents.
Rachel welcomed the announcement but said HS2 needed to do more to tackle the problem at source and compensate residents for its impact.
Earlier this month, following complaints from residents that the HS2 stink had returned, Rachel wrote to HS2 Chief Executive Mark Wild and the Environment Agency seeking answers and action.
She subsequently visited the HS2 excavation works site to see the situation for herself, understand the work being undertaken, and challenge HS2 directly over how the odour was being controlled.
During the visit, Rachel made clear that residents should not have to put up with foul smells affecting their homes and daily lives, and demanded an increase in the use of mist cannons. She has also launched a petition for compensation that has been signed by more than 500 people.
Following her intervention, HS2 has now confirmed that it is strengthening its mitigation measures. These include:
- Almost doubling the number of mist cannons being deployed to dampen the smell;
- Increasing the concentration of odour neutraliser; and
- Improving wind monitoring so that odour control measures can be targeted more effectively.
Rachel said:
“Residents in Coleshill and Water Orton shouldn’t have to keep putting up with the stink from HS2. People deserve to be able to open their windows and enjoy their homes at the height of summer without being overwhelmed by foul smells.
“After residents told me the situation had become unbearable again, I took their concerns directly to HS2 and the Environment Agency, and visited the site myself to see the situation and challenge HS2 on what more could be done.
“I made clear that residents expected urgent action and meaningful improvements, so I welcome that these important new measures are being put in place. I will be continuing to monitor the situation closely to ensure they are working, and won’t hesitate to push for further action if it is needed.
“If residents continue to experience problems, please report them to both HS2 and my office. I will continue making the strongest possible case on your behalf.”
HS2 have said that excavation and movement of the material presenting the highest odour risk is expected to be completed by the end of September.