We are committed to reducing the disruption to residents that will be caused by the construction of HS2, as far as is reasonably possible. In line with other major construction schemes such as Crossrail and the Thames tideway tunnel, a code of construction practice has been developed. The code sets out the controls that will be applied to mitigate the effects of the construction of HS2 and will be binding on the nominated undertaker. Those controls include the management of construction noise by applying the best practical means.

The code of construction practice identifies where offers of noise insulation or temporary rehousing should be made to residents to ensure that their health and quality of life are not significantly affected by the construction noise. The thresholds for noise insulation were designed with consideration of the relevant British standards relating to noise caused by construction. Any noise insulation measures to be installed in qualifying residential properties will be agreed with the building’s owner or occupier. We do not feel it is appropriate or necessary also to agree such measures with the local authority, unless it owns the building.

The control of construction noise and vibration, and the scope of the noise insulation and temporary rehousing policy, have been a major focus of negotiations between HS2 and the local authorities along the phase 1 route in recent months, particularly in the London Borough of Camden. The negotiations have resulted in additions to the temporary rehousing policy, including additional criteria for identifying cases where offers of temporary rehousing of residents may be necessary. HS2 Ltd has acknowledged the habitability concerns that have been raised by the London Borough of Camden due to the exceptional nature of the construction works in that borough.

In response to those concerns, HS2 Ltd is carrying out a study in the Camden area to establish whether additional properties that do not qualify under the current noise insulation policy would benefit from further mitigation measures. If it is appropriate to do so, HS2 Ltd will use the results of the Camden study to review the criteria for noise mitigation set out in its noise insulation and temporary rehousing policy.

The lead contractors will be contractually required to have an environmental management system, which will include measures and processes for managing noise and vibration during construction, including any steps that will be taken when measured levels are greater than predicted. This process may lead to the provision of further mitigation measures, where appropriate.

Therefore, I believe that all the points made by the hon. Gentleman have been addressed and I hope that the new Clause can be withdrawn.