WINSFORD’S MP has welcomed the new High Speed Railway line (HS2) ‘in principle’, but said he would work any residents adversely affected by the development.

HS2 will see 225mph trains operate along a Y shaped network with spurs to Manchester and Leeds.

The Government’s preferred route for the £32 billion railway travels between Winsford and Middlewich, crossing the A54 and A533 close to Stanthorne Hall.

HS2 trains will connect to the West Coast Main Line at Crewe to provide services to Liverpool and Preston. There are presently no plans to stop at Winsford.

Stephen O’Brien said the proposals ‘will be of considerable potential benefit to the people who live in the Eddisbury constituency and the wider Cheshire area.’

“Not only will hundreds of new jobs be created, the fast connection both north and south will provide a significant economic boost to the area.”

Mr O’Brien added: “I welcome the HS2 in principle and the Crewe station stop in particular as it will serve the vast majority of my constituents well.

“However, I shall look very carefully at the proposed route and work very closely with, and support any and all affected constituents to ensure that their interests are fully examined and best protected.”

Secretary of State for Transport, Patrick McLoughlin, has announced that people affected by the line will be compensated.

If you think you're affected by the route: A spokesman from HS2 Ltd has advised people who think they may be affected by the preferred route to visit www.dft.gov.uk, where detailed maps can be obtained.

People can also call 0207 9444 908 to speak to an advisor.

An exceptional hardship scheme will be launched in spring. The scheme will offer people needing to move homes because of specific health and work related issues the chance to sell their property at pre HS2 announcement prices to the Government.

The process from here:

There will be a consultation with businesses and stakeholders.

Following this, a full public consultation will be launched.

A final route will be published

Environmental impacts will be assessed Final route and cost approved

Hybrid bill will progress through Parliament and the Lords.