HS2 rail link: Frank Dobson calls on Transport Secretary Philip Hammond to: ‘Give tenants a homes guarantee

MP Frank Dobson has called on Transport Secretary Philip Hammond to reassure residents of Regent’s Park over their future housing.

Hundreds of residents of Ainsdale, Eskdale, Silverdale and Stalbridge House blocks will see their homes demolished if a government-backed high-speed rail link is built.
 

But the Labour MP for Holborn and St Pancras has accused Mr Hammond of a “lack of commitment to their [the residents’] future security” and demanded answers over how they will be affected by the HS2 rail link.

Mr Dobson said: “Residents of the Regent’s Park estate haven’t been given any clear answers over how they will be affected should the scheme go ahead.”
 

He has asked Mr Hammond whether all tenants, leaseholders and owner-occupiers will be guaranteed “suitable alternative accommodation” in their neighbourhood. Mr Dobson has demanded to know when properties will be built, whether Camden Council will continue as landlord and whether rents and service charges would be affected.
 

The London Assembly’s transport committee has outlined its concerns over the impact HS2 would have. Lib Dem chairwoman Caroline Pidgeon has warned: “The current plans would seriously affect pedestrians, bus passengers and taxi drivers. Euston station could increase in size by up to a third, which would remove valuable green space, residential areas and businesses.

“The government will need to provide a more detailed plan on how Euston will be developed.”

Brian Coleman, Camden’s Tory representative on the London Assembly, has described the plans as “deeply flawed”. He said: “The disruption this project would cause is unacceptable.” Plans for Camden and around Euston station “will cause great damage to life, liberty and property”, he added.