RESIDENTS have been warned of the 'devastating impact' the Golborne link could have if constructed ahead of a Town Hall showdown between campaigners and HS2 bosses today, Thursday.

Council leader Terry O'Neill will welcome all members, parish councils, action groups and HS2 Limited chiefs later today to discuss issues of concern.

Culcheth and District Rail Action Group (CADRAG) is one of the organisations urging the Government to rule out some of the proposals.

Chairman Frank Allen said: "The main concern of Warrington residents is the devastating impact of the HS2 Golborne link, the 'Wigan spur', on jobs, the economy and their quality of life.

"There is no credible business case for the Golborne link and the alternative, to provide upgrades to the west coast main line, would cost the taxpayer less and provide significant benefits to Warrington.

"It is therefore particularly disappointing to see that the secretary of state for transport still intends the Golborne link to go ahead."

Labour's Warrington South constituency spokesman Nick Bent has again urged Warrington South MP David Mowat to ensure the proposal is scrapped.

Mr Mowat continues to monitor the situation closely.

He said: "The Government is committed to the northern powerhouse – a key component of which is investment in the region's transport infrastructure.

"We are upgrading the road network and improving railways in the region to keep the north west moving.

"My main priority for Warrington is to get the pointless Wigan spur stopped – this forms no part of the HS2 business case."

Last month transport secretary Patrick McLoughlin opened the £26.5 million Crew Green link road.

It is a potential connection on a future HS2 route but Mr Allen believes Warrington residents should not be concerned.

He added: "It will have little, if any, impact on Warrington residents.

"It may improve access to Crewe to some extent but most Warrington residents will still want to access long distance trains at Warrington Bank Quay."