Vital consultation on Lyminster bypass to launch

The proposed route runs from south of the A27 at Crossbush to Toddington Nurseries.

It would form the northern section of a new route, ending at East Street, in Littlehampton, with a new roundabout on the A259 Worthing Road.

The bypass will improve access to Littlehampton by reducing delays to road traffic associated with the level crossing at Wick.

It is anticipated the existing A284 Lyminster Road will become quieter as through traffic and heavy goods vehicles use the bypass.

The scheme will also provide the additional road capacity needed to support the building of new homes in the area.

Pieter Montyn, West Sussex County Council’s cabinet member for highways and transport, said: “This is a much-needed project that we hope will have a positive impact both on people living in Lyminster village, and those travelling between the A27 and Littlehampton.”

Studies have shown that there is only one appropriate route for the bypass.

However, there are two options for tying the new road into the existing A284 north of Lyminster village. These are north of Wolstanton House or south of The Old Vicarage.

The north section could cost approximately £8 million to build, with a possible start date for construction taking place as early as August 2016.

It will have one lane in each direction and a footpath/cycleway running the full length of one side.

The northern and southern sections of the bypass will have a speed limit of 40mph.

The bypass, if agreed, could be completed and open for traffic by December 2017.

Mr Montyn added: “The county council is committed to consulting residents on proposals that affect the local community. This is a chance for residents and those who regularly travel this route to let us know what they think of the plans, and about any potential impacts that are concerning them. Their input will ensure local opinion has been taken into account when finalising our designs for the Lyminster bypass.”

The first consultation dates for the plans are on Friday, September 12, from 6-8pm and September 13 from 10.30am to 2pm both at the Church of St Mary Magdalene, in Church Lane, Lyminster.

Then, on September 16, from 5-7.30pm, and September 17, 2.30-6pm, there will be a session at the New Millennium Chamber, in Manor House, Church Street, Littlehampton.

Plans can be viewed online at www.westsussex.gov.uk/lyminsterbypass.

Paper feedback forms are available from the Littlehampton and Arundel Libraries. All comments must be received by September 26.