My response to Stockbury roundabout decision

proposed new junction at Stockbury

Following a public inquiry, the Department for Transport has given the green light to a major junction improvement scheme at Stockbury roundabout.

This junction is badly over capacity and the decision will be welcome news for commuters fed up of sitting in traffic at this roundabout, but it will come as a blow to people in Stockbury.

There are very real concerns that the village could become a cut off ghost town as a result of these plans – something I stressed in my evidence to the public inquiry.

I’ve always argued that fixing this junction should not come at the expense of people and businesses in Stockbury, which is why I’m supporting plans for a bridge over the A249 to help improve access to the village.

I’ll continue working with the local parish council and Kent County Council to find ways of improving access to the village. Earlier today I met local councillors and people from Kent Highways to discuss the next steps in progressing plans for an access bridge.

I've been clear that the decision to go head with this scheme is not a green light to ignore concerns from people in Stockbury. I’m determined to support local residents in securing improved access to the village so that this scheme makes life better for everyone.

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