Question to the Department for Transport:

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, whether his Department has (a) identified and (b) received representations on the problems during the construction of the listed Alexandra and Ainsworth estate which led to (a) additional costs and (b) unique foundations being used to stabilise its buildings.

Yes. HS2 Ltd has identified that part of the Alexandra and Ainsworth Estate is built on piled foundations. As the planned tunnel is approximately 40m deep at this location, there is no risk of the piles intersecting the tunnel. The significant depth also means the ground movement and differential settlement at the surface is likely to be small. A Phase 1 green field ground movement assessment and a Phase 2 ground movement has been undertaken along the route. As these buildings are listed, there will also be a phase 3 assessment, which will take account of the unique features of the building and its foundations.

HS2 Ltd has received no representations on these issues.