Wiltshire Council has called on the Government to commit to a funded alternative for the A303 following the cancellation of the controversial Stonehenge tunnel scheme. The council is seeking a long-term solution for the busy route, described as vital to the South West and essential to the economic wellbeing of Wiltshire’s communities and businesses reports the Salisbury Journal.

In a letter to Heidi Alexander, Secretary of State for Transport, Cllr Ian Thorn, leader of Wiltshire Council, said the council needs urgent clarity on Government plans for the route.

The A303 is a major transport corridor connecting the South West, but with the tunnel scheme now off the table, the council says the area is left without a clear plan to address existing transport challenges.

Cllr Thorn said in the letter:

“The A303 remains a route of both national and regional importance, vital to the connectivity of the Southwest and to the economic wellbeing of Wiltshire’s communities and businesses.

“However, congestion along the route continues to have a profound and growing impact on local communities, with high volumes of traffic diverting through villages, affecting safety, air quality, and quality of life for residents.”

He stressed that the daily problems caused by congestion and diverted traffic—known locally as rat-running—are a matter of growing concern for residents across the county.

Without the Stonehenge tunnel, the council says the future of the A303 remains uncertain, with traffic displacement continuing to impact nearby villages and communities.

Cllr Thorn added:

“Given the urgency of the situation and its ongoing impact on our communities, I would welcome early engagement with you and your officials to discuss the way forward.”

He said the council remains ready to work with the Government, National Highways, and other stakeholders to develop a solution that balances transport needs with environmental and heritage considerations.

(Picture: National Highways)