BUSINESS-OWNERS in Wimboldsley were in agreement over the effects that HS2 will have on the area.

The route for the high-speed rail was announced on Monday, July 17 and will go from Crewe to Manchester, dissecting Winsford and Middlewich.

The effects on Wimsboldsley will come about due to a confirmed 4km-long depot that will be built next to Wimsboldsley Primary School in Nantwich Road.

The Guardian visited a collection of business owners in Hopley House and discussed the potential impact that the project will have in mid Cheshire.

Roy Hogkinson, from Northwich, said: “If they do it properly. But this is a country area and the impact here could be severe.

“I don’t see how Wimsboldsley or the country will benefit. Why not invest in railways locally so that we can all see improvements.

“We aren’t going to get anything from having the journey from London to Manchester cut down by minutes.”

Charlotte Deabill, from Middlewich, said: “If they build a depot in the area, especially near the school, then it will only cause more traffic in the morning.

“Nantwich Road is a busy place during the school runs.

Joanne Adams, from Winsford, said: “I feel the money could be put to much better use.

“Progress is important but only if it makes a difference in a good way, not just by saving 40 minutes on a journey.

“I have travelled by train to London and the journey was just fine as it was. Why not leave the countryside as it is which is beautiful.”

Hannah Craven, from Winsford, said: “A lot of it depends on where you live. But I struggle to see what good it would do.

Joanne Edwards, from Northwich, said: “It might bring more people into the village but that doesn’t necessarily mean that they will bring business here.

“We know Crewe is going to get a lot out of the project but what about the rest of Cheshire.

“But it will bring jobs and that is the main thing.”