In my campaign literature in May 2021, I promised to press for delivery of key junction improvements in and around the town which are badly needed to accommodate all the existing and pipeline housing developments. I also committed to campaign for improved walking and cycling infrastructure.
The Major Road Network Corridor Package proposal addresses part of those badly needed local initiatives. You may recall that the County Council formally consulted on the A22/A2290 junction improvement proposals in 2021. More information about those proposals can be found: here
Since 2021, the Conservative-run County Council have worked diligently with our Economy and Highways teams to make the case to government ministers for this project.
Earlier this year, we learned that the Conservative government had granted “Outline Business Case” approval for the project. Around £38 million has been set aside by the Department for Transport (DfT) to fund the project, with a further £7 million coming from CIL/Section 106 funds from past developer contributions associated with local housing developments.
To progress the project to "Final Business Case", the County Council needs to finalise its proposals for Active Travel (walking and cycling infrastructure).
The proposed active travel measures package comprises:
- Cuckoo Trail access improvements in Hailsham
- Cycling scheme - Polegate High Street
- Cycling scheme - Dittons Road, Stone Cross
- Hailsham Core Walking Zone
- Hempstead Lane Traffic Management and cycling improvements
- Measures identified in the East Sussex Local Cycling and Walking Infrastructure Plan (LCWIP).
We are now at the stage where public consultation on the Active Travel elements of the project needs to take place.
In the run up to this consultation, I have impressed upon officers the need for traffic calming measures in and around Hempstead Lane, in the lower sections of Anglesey Avenue and at the four-way mini-roundabout/junction at Leap Cross.
The public consultation is scheduled to run from 4 November 2024 to 8 December 2024.
Click here to access the Consultation
The purpose of the public consultation is to gain local and stakeholder feedback on the proposals.
Additionally, there will be two exhibitions held at the James West Centre on Brunel Drive on the afternoons of November 7th & 12th between 2.30pm & 5.30pm.
I would encourage all residents with an interest in the project to feedback to the consultation and to attend one of the exhibitions.
N.B.: There is no indication that the new Labour government will seek to block this badly needed project at this late stage, but, given the chaos associated with the Budget last week, nothing can be guaranteed. Your feedback can help us to make the best possible Final Business Case.
