We have been informed that HS2 protestors targeted a Hanson concrete plant in Middlesex on a number of occasions this week. Yesterday, Hanson had to stop production as the protestors were walking in front of trucks.

The information we have received about these protests is as follows:

• Approximately six protestors blocked (laying in front of the gate) the main access point to Denham concrete plant
• Employees locked themselves in the batch cabin (batcher, yards person and franchisee haulier)
• The protestors then issued a letter to batch cabin (requesting a meeting)
• Shortly after the protesters then banged on the cabin, shouting ‘we will cause you disruption’
• The protesters then left the batch cabin – Hanson employees took the opportunity to leave the site
• When leaving roughly 15 to 20 protesters gathered at the main gate and filmed employees leaving

Additionally, Hanson were also targeted in a separate incident at one of their vacant sites near Sutton Coldfield. We have also been made aware that a number of other HS2 suppliers (Powerdry Waste Management & Ashville Aggregates) have been subject to direct action over the last few days – with protestors entering sites, slow walking in front of vehicles and attempting to access buildings to engage with employees.

When viewed collectively, this represents a worrying development as it suggests the protestors may have changed tactics to focus on production sites outside of the HS2 security cordon. There is also evidence of the protests taking more direct action (entering sites, disrupting vehicles) with attempts to intimidate site staff.

It is also important to remember that Extinction Rebellion is planning a National Day of Trespass next week; on the 24^th April – although we appreciate this is a Saturday and so many of our sites may not be open.

All operational staff must therefore remain vigilant to the risk and aware of what needs to be done in case of a protest at or near our sites. CEMEX Global Security and ERM have developed a generic contingency plan in relation to the potential for protest. Please ensure you are familiar with this plan – you can download it here.

Colin Jones, UK Security Manager, comments: “It is clear that incidents of protest connected to the HS2 project are on the increase, and we expect this to continue over the months to come. With our competitors and other suppliers being targeted, it is vital that all staff who work on or visit our sites are aware of the risk and know what to do in the instance of any protests.

However, there is no need for anxiety or concern. We are in a good position as a business, prepared for any incidents and with a strong contingency plan in place. If you have any questions or worries, please do contact myself or John Sweeting and we would be very happy to help you.”

[With thanks to our colleagues at the MPA and Hanson for the information about these incidents]