Bexhill Link Road inquiry starts today

The planned 100million road has already been given the go-ahead, but the controversial scheme is still under the microscope.

Todays events follow the pre-inquiry meeting held in September, for which objectors to the scheme filled the De La Warr Pavilion and heard inquiry inspector Christopher Tipping explain his procedures.

The inquiry, which gets underway today, will look closely at exactly how Local Authorities brokered deals with landowners to buy land needed for the development as well as other plots for new environmental habitats which will replace those affected by the road.

These deals were done in the form of compulsory purchase orders - with the council effectively forcing the owners to part with the land.

Anti-road lobbyists, including the eighteen who registered to speak over the next three to four weeks, have raised concerns over the way this was carried out.

Objections to a number of Side Roads Orders will also be considered.

The inquiry, which is being held at the White Rock Theatre, Hastings, is expected to last three to four weeks and will sit daily from Tuesdays to Thursday between 10am and 5pm. On Friday sessions will finish slightly earlier at 1.30pm.

The first day will begin with opening remarks by the Inspector. The remainder of the day will be spent on site visits.

East Sussex County Council, the authority behind the scheme, will start presenting evidence on Wednesday.

Once complete, Christopher Tipping will report on his findings to the Secretary of State for Transport and the Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government.

Though the final decision rests with the Secretary of State, it would be unusual for the inspector's recommendation to be ignored.

What do you think about the link road? Is it a good idea? Should it go ahead? Leave your comments below.