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Residents living along the route of the HS2 railway line in a Warwickshire village have shared personal accounts of the severe disruption the large-scale infrastructure project has brought to their daily lives. One long-term resident, Linda Franklin, and her husband Ed, who reside in Water Orton, expressed their distress over the deterioration of their home, which lies close to the ongoing construction zone. With plans once in place to downsize after raising their three daughters, the couple now find it impossible to sell their property due to its proximity to the HS2 works, with real estate agents unwilling to list the house.
The couple’s concerns extend beyond just the marketability of their home. Linda, a retired nurse living on Attleboro Lane, described how vibrations from heavy machinery have caused significant structural damage to their property, including cracks in plaster, ceiling damage, and broken tiles. Despite living there for nearly three decades, the Franklins have received a repair estimate of £7,000. While HS2 has acknowledged some responsibility, they have only agreed to cover half of the repair costs, an offer Linda feels falls short. She summarized the emotional toll by saying, “I dread coming home, it’s just destroying every part of it.”
Alongside property damage, residents are also concerned about worsening air quality due to the construction activities. Those attending community gatherings, such as the weekly Spud Club at the local Methodist church, worry about the impact on health. Maddie Riley, who moved to Water Orton two years ago, shared her worries about her partner’s asthma deteriorating since the commencement of HS2 work nearby. Similarly, Chris Baker, an 81-year-old with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, attributed a decline in his breathing to airborne contaminants from the construction site, noting relief only when away on holiday.
On the other hand, HS2 representatives highlight progress and community engagement efforts in the area. Luke Nipen, head of engagement, spoke about the completion of the Bromford tunnel last year and the nearing completion of two large viaducts that will carry trains over several obstacles including roads and a river. Nipen noted that upcoming landscaping plans aim to integrate the infrastructure more sympathetically into the local environment. Additionally, some community groups have benefited from HS2 funding, with eight venues in the village receiving a total of £305,000. Water Orton Cricket Club, celebrating its 146th season, has used grants to refurbish its clubhouse and improve local facilities, a development welcomed by committee member Steve Murphy as a positive outcome amidst the challenges
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