Following a meeting with Chairman Councillor Graham Bolt and Vice Chairman Councillor Sheila Cook of Whittington and Fisherwick Parish Council down at the House of Commons, Michael Fabricant has formally objected today to the West Coast Mainline Works planned for that part of Staffordshire. This follows his earlier objection to the track widening planned through the centre of Armitage and Handsacre. (Mr Fabricant is pressing for Railtrack to use their northern route which by-passes Armitage and Handsacre and the Ridwares.)

In writing to John Prescott today (Deputy Prime Minister and Secretary of State for the Department of the Environment, Transport and the Regions), Michael drew his attention to a number of detailed objections including the
demolition of three cottages at Hademore level crossing, the temporary loss of The Green at Fisherwick, and insufficient detail being provided by Railtrack regarding the disruption to the road system and access through Whittington, Fisherwick and Huddlesford. There is also considerable concern regarding noise and vibration.

"The purpose of the formal objection is to ensure that this whole issue is given a proper hearing before impartial judges. So far, Railtrack have been less than helpful in answering the detailed queries of Whittington and Fisherwick Parish Council. The hearing might well determine that alternative routes and methods of construction may be found to mitigate the impact on those living in Whittington, Fisherwick, and Huddlesford. I am also concerned that this attractive area, with many historic features, is not permanently scarred." says Michael Fabricant.