Amanda Milling MP: HS2 will win Staffordshire critics round
People in Staffordshire will eventually come round to the idea of HS2, according to the Conservative Party chair.
Amanda Milling said the line had “clear benefits” for Birmingham which would have a knock-on effect for surrounding areas, including Staffordshire.
The Cannock Chase MP likened the controversial high-speed rail link to the M6 Toll, which she said had initially met “a lot of opposition” but was now considered a key part of the transport network.
HS2, which will pass through 45 miles of Staffordshire countryside, was given the green light by ministers earlier this month despite concerns over spiralling costs and damage to the environment.
The decision has prompted an outcry in parts of the county, but Mrs Milling said that while she understands residents’ concerns, she believes they will eventually see the benefits of HS2 outweigh the negatives.
“If we go back to the M6 Toll road, there was a lot of opposition to that before it was built,” Mrs Milling said.
“People don’t talk about that now as they see it has that link service which adds something to the transport network.
“I appreciate there are some issues in terms of HS2, particularly the way HS2 Ltd is run and has dealt with residents. There is work to do.”
She added the increased capacity as well as the “real difference” to the landscape in Birmingham had helped to bring her on-side with the project.
