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Newsletter - Spring 2005
Introduction
The Highways Agency has published this fifth newsletter to help people keep up to date with the progress of the A419 Blunsdon Bypass project since the Winter 2004 Newsletter.
Progress Since Last Newsletter
The Highways Agency published the draft Orders for the scheme on 3rd March 2005. The draft Orders outline the proposals for the project and identify land acquisition requirements and changes to the existing road system. These details together with scheme plans and environmental mitigation measures were presented at a public exhibition held on 11th and 12th March at Blunsdon Village Hall. The exhibition was very well attended and gave the local community the opportunity to discuss the proposals with the Highways Agency’s team.
Following publication of the draft Orders everyone was given until 11 May 2005 to write in to support, comment on or object to the draft Orders. They could also put forward alternative proposals or comment on the Environmental Statement. This period is now over and at the closing date the Highways Agency confirms that it had received over 200 letters of support, 16 objections (1 now withdrawn) and 6 representations with regard to the proposed scheme.
The Highways Agency is pleased to announce that the Public Information Centre is now open to visitors. The centre is situated in Durban House, Lady Lane, Blunsdon and is open on Wednesdays between 10:00 and 18:00. This facility enables members of the public a further opportunity to view the scheme proposals and discuss any concerns or issues with representatives of the team.
| Programme | Event Date |
|---|---|
| End of Objection Period | 11th May 2005 |
| Public Inquiry | October 2005 |
| Secretary of States decision | Summer 2006 |
| Start of construction | Spring 2007 |
Next Stage
The Highways Agency confirms that it intends to hold a Public Inquiry so that the Objections against the proposed scheme can be fully addressed in front of an independent Inspector. The Agency based this decision on the nature and number of Objections received. The Public Inquiry will be held in October 2005 and the dates and venue will be widely published when the arrangements have been finalised.
Looking Ahead
Following the Public Inquiry the decision to proceed will be made by the Secretary of State based on the Inspectors recommendations.
If the Secretary of States gives his approval then the team can progress with the detailed design of the scheme. It will also enable the process for acquiring land required by the scheme to commence.
