Major road changes for HS2 scheme

CHANGES to some of Solihull’s busiest routes – which will pave the way for the HS2 rail project – have been approved by councillors.

Following in-depth discussions between HS2 and highways officers, an application for alterations to the A452 Chester Road and A446 Stonebridge Road were brought to Solihull Council’s cabinet.

The meeting was briefed on the raft of changes required, including the realignment of the Birmingham Business Park junction, alterations to the Bickenhill Parkway/Northway junction and changes to the access to Melbicks Garden Centre/Quartz Point.

Plans were agreed subject to HS2 signing up to various conditions and could yet be rejected if an agreement is not reached.

The council demands include the creation of an action plan to minimise the impact of the works on Birmingham Airport, the NEC complex and other local businesses.

Councillor Ian Courts, leader of Solihull Council, said: “This is an enormous project and it affects many of our communities and many of our communities don’t really understand, often, the extent of it.

“I have stressed to HS2 that you’ve got to think about our communities and liaise with our council in getting the right communication out to them.

“Because this whole programme is going on for several years and we’ve got to look after our people in that time.”

Councillor Steve Caudwell, representing the Green Party, Solihull’s official opposition, said it was essential the plan for the works also took account of the impact on residents, as well as companies, noting that congestion could already be “pretty horrific” at peak times.