Letters: Renhold is united against East West Railway

Renhold Stop East West Rail signs 1
Some of the signs that have been removed by Bedford Borough Council

Dear editor,

These photos demonstrate the strength of feeling in Renhold, so many residents have a ‘Stop the Railway’ poster on display.

As all will by now be aware, huge swathes of beautiful countryside, ancient woodlands, arable farmland, wildlife habitat will be destroyed and lost forever, in exchange for ugliness, noise, diesel fumes and vibration.

Our Listed thatched cottage in this pretty village of Renhold has had several owners over the last 400 years, and all have maintained the structure and the character for the benefit of not just themselves but for future generations.

Like many of the 30+ listed buildings in Renhold, it would not be far from proposed routes 8&9 of the East/West railway line.

Renhold Church which is Grade I Listed would be approx 1/2 mile from the tracks. Just 2.5% of listed buildings nationwide are Grade I.

I am extremely concerned about the effects of vibration on such buildings, particularly during the construction of the huge viaducts, cuttings etc. Some buildings are wattle & daub, many have no foundations, some are of timber construction etc.

I very much believe that the consultation which was previously carried out was flawed.

The railway should be coming to Bedford, not through Bedford, and I would urge everyone to push for a re-consultation when covid restrictions allow live events.

Give North Beds residents a chance to properly give their views.

Julie Roberts
Green End, Renhold

Letters published do not reflect the views of the Bedford Independent. If you would like to respond to any issues raised, please email letters@bedfordindependent.co.uk.

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