CHESHIRE West and Cheshire Council has submitted two petitions against HS2 phase B from Crewe to Manchester following concerns from residents.

The council wants the concerns of residents to be raised at a national level.

Councillor Karen Shore, deputy leader and cabinet member for environment, highways and strategic transport said: “These petitions are the result of consultation with residents and businesses directly affected by the HS2 plans.”

The High Speed Rail Bill, which seeks the powers to build the section of the HS2 network between Crewe and Manchester, was introduced to Parliament on January 24.

On July 6 changes were made by the Government with the introduction of the AP1 Environmental Statement which sets out the proposed environmental effects of building phase B.

The concerns raised by the council relate to highways and active travel, public transport and public rights of way, climate change, equality and diversity, landscape and visual, ecology and biodiversity, schools, ground conditions, Crewe North Rolling Stock Depot, the need for engagement officers, waste and minerals.

Councillor Shore said: “Submitting these petitions is our opportunity to formally present the case to the Government and seek commitment for additional mitigation measures before the Bill becomes law as an Act of Parliament.

“Petitioning is just one part of our ongoing discussions with HS2 Limited, about the impacts this project will create whilst also ensuring that maximum opportunities are made available to businesses and the local workforce.”

The council says that it supports the general principle of HS2 and the economic and environmental benefits which it will bring and petitioning against this bill aims to influence decisions and to make sure the concerns of residents and businesses are heard at the highest level.

Links to both petitions and details about how the borough will be affected can be found on the Council’s website: www.cheshirewestandchester.gov.uk/hs2