Wormwood Scrubs Common in the north of the borough
Statement from Cllr Sue Fennimore, Deputy Leader of H&F
H&F Council opposed plans put forward by HS2 Limited to undertake construction works between Braybrook Street and the railway line, which would pass through a sensitive area of the Scrubs that we know residents treasure and that contains critical biodiversity.
Following recent urgent discussions with H&F Council, HS2 Limited has now agreed to consider the option of using Old Oak Common Lane instead of Braybrook Street to access its works.
While we would much prefer that no works were undertaken at all and will do everything we can to minimise any ecological damage, we understand that Parliament has passed legislation that requires works to proceed to divert a sewer and utility lines. The option of using Old Oak Common Lane to access these works would entail far less disruption to both the Scrubs and local residents.
Meanwhile H&F is working urgently with others to acquire the necessary planning consent for this alternative route and has already begun discussions on this matter with relevant authorities such as The Old Oak and Park Royal Development Corporation (OPDC).
This process may take several weeks. We will keep residents and others updated.
We will also continue to work closely with the Wormwood Scrubs Charitable Trust which manages this wonderful open space. Its valuable work to protect and enhance the extraordinary biodiversity of the Scrubs continues and we will give it our fullest support.
If you have any questions on this matter, please contact highways_general@lbhf.gov.uk
