I HAVE followed with interest the recent announcement and debate concerning HS2.
Over the past century the speed of travel has increased enormously, and it can probably be argued that, thus far, the resulting benefits to society have outweighed the detriments. However I believe the advent of HS2 will be a bridge too far, whereby the benefits to society will be outweighed by the detriments. People wishing to arrive in London a little earlier than usual can simply get an earlier train – what’s the hurry?
Since the announcement of the plans for HS2 I have seen or heard very little about the associated safety case.
Indeed safety did not even receive a mention during the debate on Question Time recently. Nevertheless associated safety issues are detailed on the internet, and for example there is reference to significant amplification of train track vibrations at speeds of 225mph.
I think there is little doubt that the control systems on HS2 will be very much more sophisticated than they are on current trains, thus reducing the likelihood of an accident.
However when the speed of an object is doubled its kinetic energy is quadrupled, and the consequences in the event of a collision or derailment (requiring the absorption of this vastly increased amount of energy), will be very much more severe. I believe that safety is the parameter which HS2 objectors should raise at Government level, and if you are not in favour of HS2 I urge you to lobby your MP.
BOB TAYLOR Mereheath Lane, Knutsford
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