Members of Chichester & Arun Green Party were delighted to hear that plans for the divisive and unpopular bypass ‘grey’ route have been put on hold by the government. Local Green activists and councillors have stood alongside residents for the past four years, as the community has been torn apart and put under enormous stress by the incompetent antics of National Highways.
“We have always opposed all Bypass routes, except for the Arundel Alternative, put forward by local people that would work at a fraction of the cost,” said Cllr Isabel Thurston, Green leader at Arun District Council and long-time road campaigner. “A green solution would also include measures such as improved public transport, safe active travel routes, smart travel measures and better management of freight.”
Arundel and Walberton councillor, Steve McAuliffe, said: “The past few years have been very difficult for local residents in the whole Walberton, Fontwell and Binsted area, as they have feared so much for their homes and quiet way of life. Now we are going to carry on campaigning to make sure the landscape and community is properly protected in case the destructive proposals are brought back in the future. I have worked hard to raise the profile of the wildlife and habitat damage that would be done, and I’m glad the Secretary of State for Transport has highlighted the same issues.”
Green Party Deputy Leader, Zack Polanski, visited Arundel recently to express solidarity with local people. Speaking to a packed room in Arundel, he addressed many issues dear to local residents, such as the bypass and inappropriate housing developments. From local councillors to party leadership, Greens are confident they have better solutions to transport issues and will continue to work hard to ensure that any future government will listen.
“We would like to pay tribute to all the people involved in the fight against the ‘road to nowhere’,” said Cllr Thurston. “While we celebrate the reprieve we have been granted, the fight will continue to protect this landscape and communities.”