John Thurso MP supports Joanna Au Brey

12.30.51pm GMT Wed 9th Mar 2005

The views of John Thurso, MP on traffic in Tunbridge Wells? "Diabolical."

John Thurso, MP, frontbench spokesman for Transport came to Tunbridge Wells this week to see for himself the traffic chaos in Tunbridge Wells.

Touring the St John's Ward with LibDem Borough Candidate Joanna Au Brey, John got caught in the gridlock that is the bane of every driver's life in the Tunbridge Wells.

Joanna said, "It is astonishing that after 4 years the A21 dualling between Pembury and Tonbridge is going back to the drawing board. Residents of Tunbridge Wells have no option but to put up with interminable journeys on poor roads which causes air pollution combined with the unreliability of trains to do our jobs, collect our children and keep going in hope that those with power to do so will eventually resolve the muddle."

When asked to comment about the traffic problems, John Thurso, who lived in Uckfield in 1995 and knows Tunbridge Wells, said just one word, "Diabolical."

Joanna continued, "Until these crucial infrastructure issues are resolved how can any responsible planning policy allow further new housing? And yet the relentless pursuit of sites by developers continues. New vigour and fresh ideas and determination are vital solve this infrastructure crisis to ensure that Tunbridge Wells fulfils its potential in 21st century."

Tony Blair is apparently commissioning research why the public are not "happy". Joanna asked, "Can his Transport Minister please give the green-light to A21 dualling and require the train service to install disability access and you will see some smiles from Tunbridge Wells residents."