Greg Smith MP writes...

"Virtually every day I and members of my team are in contact with East West Rail (EWR) and HS2 Ltd raising a vast array of issues with the construction of both projects.

"Unlike HS2, the concept of the East West Rail project enjoys broad support -- it will be a useful railway for us in Buckinghamshire. However, the manner in which it is being built and EWRs unwillingness to take on board the concerns of local residents and representatives is just not good enough, in fact it is downright appalling and (dare I say it) rapidly becoming as bad as HS2 Ltd and their contractors (and that sets a pretty high bar for awfulness).

"This week, EWRs determination to press ahead with an absolutely preposterous ten month - yes TEN month - closure of Sandhill Road is just plain wrong. Such major disruption over such a long period of time can't be right and I fear demonstrates a contempt by EWR for the communities affected. So I have written to the Rail Minister to ask for his urgent intervention and action to find a better solution to allow for the bridge and utility works this road closure is about to happen."