Adur and Worthing Council have said that plans to build "the longest road tunnel in the UK" should be considered for the A27 in Worthing as a "long-term solution" to congestion problems.
The scheme was discussed by the council’s Joint Strategic Sub-Committee last night (6 September) and recommended for approval.
It comes after Transport for the South East (TfSE) included proposals for the £2bn, 4km-5km project in its draft Strategic Investment Plan for the South East.
The concept of building a tunnel would be to tackle the congestion issues on the A27 which are polluting the area. Leader of Worthing Borough Council Dr Beccy Cooper said: “We know something very bold has to be done to promote sustainable transport and reduce carbon emissions. We need to have a vision, a framework for how we are going to help people take less car journeys.
Transport for the South East (TfSE) has addressed how these schemes need to be invested in to tackle congestion and the carbon emissions this causes.
The report, considered by the council says: “The impact of congestion in Worthing remains a major problem that has an adverse impact on local quality of life and is of regional significance.” The report has also made it clear that short-term solutions will be welcomed in fixing this congestion issue.
Leader of Worthing Borough Council Beccy Cooper said: “We know something very bold has to be done to promote sustainable transport and reduce carbon emissions.
“Proposals such as the tunnel and removing the level crossing will need much more thinking through and consultation with our local communities and may of course come to nothing as considerable funding will be necessary, but we broadly welcome a direction of travel that wants to work with Worthing to make it healthier and more accessible.”
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