A21 fiasco could cost lives

4.23.46pm UTC (GMT +0000) Mon 17th Jan 2005

PPC Laura Murphy, "Traffic congestion could cost lives"

Local LibDems were furious that the Department of Transport was back tracking over their commitment to upgrade the A21. The Conservative MP Archie Norman was also criticised for his lack of influence.

LibDem PPC, Laura Murphy said, "Residents and businesses have consistently complained to me about the appalling road traffic situation in the Tunbridge Wells area. One of the reasons why the NHS Trust ambulances cannot get to an emergency within their target times is because of the traffic congestion.

The state of our roads not only inconveniences the traveller, it impacts on the economic vitality of the area and could also cost lives."

Pembury's Borough Councillor Bruce Ballantine said, "To say that the decision by the Department of Transport to refer this to SEERA is a backward step is putting it mildly It's about time they got their act together and gave us the transport infrastructure that Tunbridge Wells deserves."

Laura added, "The blame for this fiasco lies on the shoulders of the Minister but we must also question how much influence our MP, Archie Norman, has been able to bring to bear. With the Tory party in meltdown, how effective is he in promoting the interests of residents to the Minister?"