Chichester District Council '˜welcomed A27 improvements but had Manhood concerns'

Chichester District Council has today spoken of its concern at the Government's announcement that it is cancelling the Chichester by-pass improvement scheme.
CDC leader Tony Dignum. Photo by Derek Martin SUS-170901-111140008CDC leader Tony Dignum. Photo by Derek Martin SUS-170901-111140008
CDC leader Tony Dignum. Photo by Derek Martin SUS-170901-111140008

In a statement, the council said it supported and welcomed the introduction of the A27 improvement scheme and committed over £12 million towards it, but it urged Highways England to carry out a fair and transparent consultation process.

Read the full story on Mr Grayling’s shock decision here

CDC leader Tony Dignum said: “We must hope that the Government can be persuaded to reconsider its decision to cancel the Chichester by-pass scheme.

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“We were close to securing a £250m investment which has now been lost.

“The cancellation means that the appalling congestion, especially at peak times, will only get worse, not only on the A27 but on the alternative routes used by motorists avoiding the A27.

“In announcing his decision the Secretary of State has now at last clarified that the Government would not agree to a northern route.

“The district council had sought a re-run of the consultation to include a wider range of options than those offered by Highways England.

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“The council also was not satisfied that any of the online options as presented, satisfactorily addressed access to and from the Manhood Peninsula and the A27.

“This and other issues would need to be met by the significant changes suggested by the district council to the options offered. All we have asked for is openness and transparency.

“Contrary to the Secretary of State’s statement, the district council did not withdraw its support for Highways England Option 2, subject to significant mitigations, nor have we withdrawn our promised over £12 million share of the funding.

“If we are to persuade Government to change its mind about cancellation, the district council and county council need to work towards an agreed local view. I will play my part on behalf of the district council.”

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