A COMPENSATION scheme for those affected by the controversial High Speed Two rail link was launched today but hundreds of furious residents living in Primrose Hill have been excluded. The high speed line from Euston to Birmingham will require tunnels to b

A COMPENSATION scheme for those affected by the controversial High Speed Two rail link was launched today but hundreds of furious residents living in Primrose Hill have been excluded.

The high speed line from Euston to Birmingham will require tunnels to be dug just 20m under the homes of residents including that of the prospective Labour Party leader David Miliband.

Residents in the exclusive neighbourhood fear subsidence from the digging of the tunnels and the noise and vibrations from the passing trains will blight their lives for years to come but they are being denied any financial compensation.

Only those, whose homes will be demolished to make way for the expansion of Euston station and those living close to the line, will qualify for compensation from the Exceptional Hardship Scheme.

Camden's Lib Dem councillor Chris Naylor told the Ham&High: "Everyone is very disappointed that despite all the representation we made they have stuck to their original position and are refusing to offer any compensation for those living above the tunnels.

"Clearly residents, whether they are council tenants or those with their own homes, will be affected. It seems crazy that they are not going to offer proper compensation."

The Primrose Hill High Speed Two Reference Group, made up of affected residents are considering launching a High Court action against the planned route and what they see as an unfair compensation scheme.

A Department for Transport Spokesman said: “High speed rail is a key part of the Government’s agenda and has the potential to play an important role in creating a low carbon economy. But we recognise that there may be significant consequences for some of those who live on or close to the proposed route.

“HS2 Ltd have recently published a report which explains why the impact of any high speed line on properties above tunnelled sections would be likely to be minimal. The Government’s view is, therefore, that any effect of blight over tunnels is likely to be limited.

“However, we accept the need to make provision for properties which are close to the proposed entrances and exits of tunnels. Therefore, they are eligible for the Exceptional Hardship Scheme, providing that they met the other eligibility criteria for the scheme.”