§ Lord Gainfordasked Her Majesty's Government:
What plans they have for public consultation on the Channel Tunnel Rail Link.
The Earl of CaithnessUnion Railways (UR), British Rail's subsidiary for the rail link, are in the final stages of their studies to refine the easterly approach route. The Government's brief for the studies is described in a paper entitledDeveloping the Route, supported by a paper entitled Environmental Appraisal, which has been discussed with the local authorities concerned (copies have been placed in the Library). The studies take account of information provided by local authority officers during confidential consultation on matters such as planning considerations.
UR's report to the Government is expected by the end of December and will contain a reference case route together with sub-route options. The Government will decide and announce as soon as possible the route for consultation. At the same time UR will publish supporting information and take the lead in a full consultation process, which is expected to last about six months. The consultation will include right honourable and honourable Members in another place, local authorities, environmental bodies and the public.
At the end of the consultation period, the Government will decide on any changes to be incorporated in the route, and will make a further announcement.