Say no to link road says Alliance

It's not too late to object to the Bexhill-Hastings Link Road.

Anyone who wants to voice their opposition still has the chance to do so according to the Hastings Alliance which is appealing to everyone to submit their objections by March 6.

Compulsory Purchase Orders and Side Road Orders have been sent out by East Sussex County Council to clear the way for the road development but the Hastings Alliance still believes it is not too late to stop the scheme going ahead.

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Campaigner Derrick Coffee is calling for alternative transport solutions and development plans "that would not wreck one of the south east's precious resources", which he claims is "a beautiful unspoilt valley containing protected wildlife species and habitats and nationally important archaeological sites."

Derrick commented: "The valley is a great leisure facility on the doorstep of 130,000 people as well as a unique tourism asset."

Speaking on behalf of local and national organisations that make up the Alliance, chairman Nick Bingham said: "The need for the road has never been demonstrated.

"Alternative transport solutions, and development proposals that would not be road-based have been ignored.

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"The massive environmental damage in pursuit of fictional claims of 2000 extra jobs is completely unacceptable. There is a strong possibility that some of the out-of-town jobs will simply replace 'in-town' jobs, thus requiring those who currently walk to work to get a car.

"This is not an option for an area where only 39% of households have one.

"How many town centres have to be ruined by out of town developments for the lesson to be learnt that local shops and businesses close down where urban sprawl and big retail sheds rule?

"Major roads are bad for local economies and favour footloose employers who are quick to depart. Small businesses are a positive feature of both Bexhill and Hastings; with the Link Road they could disappear."

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The road was estimated in a government funded study to cost 24m in 2002, conditionally approved by government in 2004 at 47m, but is currently priced at 100m.

The Alliance claims the costs are clearly now "out of control" and that this is reflected in council tax increases this year for all in East Sussex.

Derrick added: "The road would clearly be very poor value for money, and prevent sustainable non-polluting alternatives from playing a full part in meeting our needs. The road will produce 6,000 tonnes of carbon dioxide per year.

"We urge readers to send objections to: Linda Smart, National Transport Casework Team, 4th Floor, Citygate, Gallowgate, Newcastle upon Tyne. NE1 1TW, or email [email protected].

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"Please object if you agree that the road should be scrapped and subjected to a public inquiry on grounds of no proven need, environmental damage, poor value for money, alternatives never examined, reckless haste to provide the 'wrong solution'.

"Please log on to: www.hastingsalliance.com or phone 01424 883319."

What do you think? Do you support the Link Road? If you don't agree with the plan leave your message below