Arundel Bypass: MP reacts to 'one of the largest Government investments ever made in West Sussex'

The MP for Arundel and South Downs has reacted to the announcement of the Arundel Bypass route.
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Yesterday (October 15) Highways England announced that the 'grey route' has been picked as the one it will be hoping to build on the A27, out of six options put to the public.

This route, shown in the video above, sweeps south of the South Downs National Park and includes a new dual carriageway between Crossbush in the east and a new junction near Tye Lane in the west. It is the longest and costliest of the six routes put forward, with the most benefits to drivers, and avoids the South Downs National Park entirely - but is the worst case scenario for the residents of Walberton, Binsted and Tortington. The last public estimate for the cost of the project was £455million. Click here for everything you need to know about the bypass.In response, Andrew Griffith said: “The A27 Arundel bypass is a much-needed project which I support. It will reduce congestion, enhance air quality, improve road safety and support

much needed employment and economic growth.

Andrew Griffith has voiced his viewsAndrew Griffith has voiced his views
Andrew Griffith has voiced his views
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"This is one of the largest Government investments ever made in West Sussex and I am pleased to have worked with the Secretary of State for Transport and the Chancellor to secure the necessary support for Highways England to proceed.”

However, on the impact on residents of Walberton, Binsted and Tortington, Andrew added: “It is very disappointing that the alternative routes which would have had far less impact on the residents of Walberton, Binsted and Tortington were blocked by certain areas having protected status and by the failure of the South Downs National Park to endorse any route within its boundary.

"I am committed to supporting residents in getting the best noise mitigation, road design and, where appropriate, swift compensation although nothing can ease the pain on those whom it most affects.”

Finally, in response to potential opponents of road building, Andrew said: “Some question whether we need to improve our roads at all. Whilst I support a rapid switch to cleaner and quieter vehicles - and the UK is a leader in this respect - they will still need roads to drive upon and there is nothing environmentally friendly about pollution caused by congestion. The current pandemic highlights the importance of supply chains and whilst long distance commuting has declined, the usage of local roads has if anything increased.”