The MP for Chichester has written to National Highways demanding an ‘all-options’ consultation on the A27 Chichester Bypass Scheme which would mean a northern bypass would be considered.
The website Sussex World reports Gillian Keegan has written to National Highways chief executive Nick Harris saying ‘recent levels of engagement on this issue have been disappointing’ as she repeated her call for a meeting to include the county and district councils leading to a full and transparent consultation.
The local site explains the route for an upgraded A27 around Chichester has proved “highly contentious” in the past with southern communities saying only a new northern route made sense while northern villages have countered by warning of the devastating impact such a scheme would have on the environment and the national park.
It adds that in March 2017 the original scheme was scrapped by the then Transport Secretary Chris Grayling who blamed his decision on ‘the withdrawal of support by local councils for the shortlisted options and significant local campaigns’, and that since then, “anger has been growing” at mounting traffic congestion around the city with increasing demands on political leaders to take urgent action.
Writing to Mr Harris, Mrs Keegan is quoted as saying: “As you are aware, congestion on the A27 continues to have massive implications for people, businesses and the environment in Chichester and beyond.
“I am very pleased that the A27 Chichester Bypass Scheme has been included in the Road Investment Strategy 3 (RIS 3) pipeline for potential future development.
“I am writing to reiterate the importance that any A27 scheme should be progressed in an open and transparent way.
“As part of that process, I believe that must include an all-options consultation – something I’ve been calling for, for many years.
“Recent levels of engagement on this issue have been disappointing – I would welcome working with you more closely as things develop to ensure the views of my constituents are represented and a full and transparent consultation is forthcoming.”
“It is imperative that the local community and businesses are given a detailed explanation of all the options considered for development, including National Highways assessments of those options.
“My office have been in touch several times to request a meeting with myself and the local county and district council and I would be grateful if we could organise this as soon as possible.
“Recent levels of engagement on this issue have been disappointing – I would welcome working with you more closely as things develop to ensure the views of my constituents are represented and a full and transparent consultation is forthcoming.”
(Picture – Google Streetview)
