HS2 protesters block Wendover compound

HS2 protesters block Wendover compound

Police have been out on the Wendover bypass this morning, after HS2 protesters turned up.

Seven people have been waving banners and chained themselves to concrete blocks outside a construction compound of the high-speed line.

HS2 protest A413
HS2 protest A413

TVP officers have been spotted at the scene, as well as security guards.

We spoke to one of the protesters, who told us:

"HS2 are systematically destroying the natural landscape, our natural history, archaeological history and literary history.

"I've been a resident at Jones Hill Wood, which is the woodland which inspired Roald Dahl to write Fantastic Mr. Fox.

"So I have joined this protest today to highlight the damage that's being done."

As we spoke to Steve, he said around 20 police officers had surrounded them and were refusing to allow food and drink to be given to the group.

He said:

"It seems al ittle bit heavy-handed, we're not on a public highway we're just in the entrance to the HS2 site."

As we spoke, things escalated as officers took action and allegedly held down a protester and then carried them to a van.

HS2 protest A413
HS2 protest A413

As of 11.30am, traffic is still busy on the Wendover bypass.

Thames Valley Police have provided this statement:

"Thames Valley Police is in attendance at a location off Nash Lee Road, near the A413 road in Wendover, to facilitate the policing of an anti-HS2 protest, which began at approximately 6am today (28/8).

"Public safety is and remains a policing priority for the force in dealing with the impact of the HS2 railway, and officers are working to engage with the protestors.

"Three people have been arrested at the location, and they are being conveyed to custody.

"Thames Valley Police is striving to facilitate the rights of the public to protest and demonstrate peacefully, alongside the rights of HS2 to conduct their lawful business.

"Officers only become directly involved if there is any evidence of any criminality, or anyone taking direct action to disrupt lawful activity, for which the force would make any arrests where necessary."

This is a developing story and we will bring you more as we get it.