THE leader of Trafford Council has thrown his weight behind a campaign to stop the HS2 route running through Warburton village.


Cllr Matt Colledge, who is also a member of the Government’s HS2 Growth Task Force, said he will ‘continue lobbying’ on behalf of Warburton residents, despite being a ‘strong advocate’ of HS2.


Cllr Colledge said: “I clearly recognise the huge economic benefits HS2 will bring to Greater Manchester and the wider North West region and as such I am a strong advocate of HS2.


“However there are real concerns being expressed in Warburton about the proposed route and the effect it could have on the village and the countryside.


“I have already had discussions with senior HS2 staff about the concerns raised regarding the Warburton spur and Trafford Council will robustly reflect these concerns in the statutory consultation process.


“Along with my colleagues across the other Greater Manchester councils, we have included alterations in the joint submission regarding HS2.


“This change, while reinforcing that we are supportive of the principles of the scheme, means we can continue to lobby on the specific issues around the spur.
“We would like to work towards a scheme which everyone is comfortable with and supportive of."


Chairman of the Warburton Action Committee, Marion McNaughton, said: "The residents of Warburton strongly oppose the section of the proposed HS2 line which would cut through and destroy the heart of this ancient village.


“We know that Trafford Council, as well as supporting HS2 in principle, is committed to preserving the green belt and the prime agricultural land in Warburton, and we are grateful for the support they are giving the village in its efforts to have this section of the HS2 route removed from the plans.”