This motion calls for all HS2 operations around the Chiltern Aquifer to be paused. It came to light on 18th February 2023, tunnel operations in Ruislip were using chemicals which they themselves disallowed in tunnelling operations in the same aquifer just to the north, "because we would pollute the aquifer" (paragraph 10)
Chemical foam erupted on Ruislip rugby fields where HS2 operations go through an area of the aquifer under EU derogation licence that demands the aquifer be returned to good quality by 2027. Allowing chemical contamination in the catchment risks preventing compliance with UK commitments on water. EU question. EU answer.
This comes on top of mounting evidence of chromium 6 contamination during HS2 extensive cement/concrete activities in same aquifer.
We ask the GPEW and leading representatives to call for an immediate pause to works, until HS2 make clear their works are not worsening aquifer quality, damaging water availability or preventing environmental objectives being met.
