News Date: Thursday 8th December 2005
Tim uncovers truth about A27 traffic chaos
In answer to a query from East Worthing and Shoreham MP Tim Loughton, the Government have admitted the truth that Tim's constituents have known for years; the A27 is plagued by traffic chaos that is set to get much worse. Tim has forced the Government to release their official figures which show that traffic levels will increase by up to 23% over the next ten years.
Traffic congestion has been an issue for residents and workers in West Sussex for years and Tim has been campaigning for a bypass since he became an MP in 1997 but the Government have insisted on tinkering with the trunk road structure rather than even considering a bypass that would make a very significant improvement to journeys along the A27.
Tim commented:
"I am very frustrated that even now when the Government have admitted the seriousness of our traffic situation they are refusing to act. I cannot imagine how the roads will be able to cope with these increases without coming to a complete halt.
"Vital roads in and around East Worthing and Adur are in chaos and it is inexcusable for the Government to continue to deny responsibility for improving the dreadful traffic conditions which many of my constituents have to face on a daily basis. Unless the Government take urgent action the quality of life for my constituents and the rate of investment into local businesses will be irrevocably damaged."
Note to editors:
1) Tim's question to the Department for Transport was answered by The Secretary of State for Transport on 29th November and the full version can be viewed at http://www.publications.parliament.uk/pa/cm200506/cmhansrd/cm051129/text/51129w12.htm#51129w12.html_sbhd5 or below.
2) Traffic Growth (West Sussex) 29 Nov 2005 : Column 329W
Tim Loughton: To ask the Secretary of State for Transport what his projections are for traffic growth in West Sussex over each of the next 10 years. [33058]
Dr. Ladyman: Estimates of future traffic growth in West Sussex are as follows:
| Percentage | |
| 2005-10 | 8 to 11.5 |
| 2005-15 | 15.5 to 23 |
These figures are based on the National Road Traffic Forecasts (GB) 1997, with an adjustment to allow for West Sussex having higher-than-average projected rates of population and employment growth.
?, Tim Loughton MP , 2005
