New Road Environmentally Irresponsible

The Countryside Charity, CPRE Sussex says it is “appalled” by Highways England’s decision to slice through miles of pristine countryside to build the new Arundel bypass.

The roads authority announced this morning (Oct 15) that it has chosen the ‘Grey Route’ as its preferered option. The new road would cut through Binsted Valley passing close to the village’s 12 century church, natural wetlands and a rare chalk stream.

“CPRE Sussex is appalled at this decision. We know we are at a tipping point in terms of the climate and ecological emergencies so building a huge new road through and environmentally sensitive area is a regressive step,” says CPRE Vice Sussex Chair, David Johnson.

“This unnecessary road is a new dual carriageway, trashing beautiful villages and countryside, and encouraging car use in a climate emergency – it is another example of central government diktats and the wrong algorithm.

“We need to innovate and problem solve if we are to repair the damage we are causing to the Earth.”

CPRE believes Highways England’s piecemeal approach is deeply flawed and that building the new section of dual carriageways will actually worsen the free flow of traffic along the A27.

“We are very concerned that the countryside is being sacrificed in order to move a traffic jam further along the A27,” says CPRE Sussex Director, Kia Trainor.

“What we need is a more strategic approach to transport infrastructure – this is a grey choice not a green one.”

Read:

A27 Arundel Preferred Route Announcement letter

A27 Arundel Bypass Preferred Route Announcement Leaflet

Press Release – SCATE 15-10-20