A27 improvement plans for Worthing remain unchanged - minister

The transport minister John Hayes has told Worthing's MP that plans to improve the A27 through the town remain on track, despite the scrapping of upgrades to the road through nearby Chichester.

The Worthing Herald reports that many residents are concerned changes designed for long distance drivers will create holdups for Worthing traffic, and cut residents off from the South Downs National Park.  They say it is a "safety gamble" and that local traffic must be considered when it comes to improvements.

“Even with present traffic volumes, exiting from many driveways or streets onto the A27 is a safety gamble.

“Air and noise pollution are having serious health impacts already,” he added.

Mike Tristram, coordinator for the Sompting A27 Rural Group (SARG), is quoted as saying, “We don’t want junction improvements to be dropped."

It also spoke to Keith Taylor, Green MEP for the South East and a member of the European Parliament’s Transport Committee, who said, “With a consultation on plans for a Worthing bypass due to begin this summer, I urge the Government to include long-term sustainable and environmentally sound transport options, informed by local communities.”

Picture - John Hayes