A CAMPAIGN group opposed to Stratford’s proposed South Western Relief Road has hit out at the controversial plans.
Cala Homes submitted plans for the Long Marston Airfield Garden Village scheme of 3,100 homes along with the road to Stratford District Council – both which were included in the council’s core strategy, which shapes the future of the district until 2031.
Developers say a number of resident’s concerns have been taken into account and incorporated into the plans, including providing smaller homes at the Garden Village.
The proposed two-mile road – which would run between Shipston Road near Orchard Hill Farm, and Luddington Road – would incorporate a two-arched bridge if given the green light.
But Stratford Residents Action Group (SRAG) says the road will create even more traffic problems and is preparing to mount a legal challenge.
A spokeswoman said: “Cala’s statement shows quite clearly that the road is about ‘mitigating’ new traffic which will come from 3,500 houses planned for Long Marston. But this road is all about bringing additional traffic into our town – traffic that wants to go to the M40 or the A46.
“At the public consultation Cala asked two limited questions which did not allow for any negative reaction. So, to say the public were overwhelmingly in favour of any design is wrong.
“SRAG research undertaken at the consultation provided compelling evidence that both designs were almost universally rejected and many expressed the view they would prefer a road further out of town.
“When will the council be brave enough to admit the plans for the South Western Relief Road (SWRR) are wrong and acknowledge it’s the wrong road in the wrong place? Residents should demand their money is spent on a solution that takes traffic away from our already congested roads. SRAG are preparing our legal case and will be challenging the district council on these points.”
Cala says the road is much-needed to cope with the added strain on infrastructure from the new development.
Spokesman Michael Emett said: : “We have spent the last few months working hard to ensure our final proposal for Long Marston Airfield Garden Village delivers a new, vibrant and sustainable community to help meet Stratford district’s long-term development needs, and the SWRR proposal puts forward the most appropriate design to help mitigate the traffic impact of the development.
“The public had strong opinions on many aspects of the SWRR proposals presented and we have tried, where possible, to incorporate the suggestions made into the final application.
“They will of course be able to provide further feedback on the proposals via the district council’s website, as part of the consultation process.”
Stratford District Council says it is unable to comment on the group’s concerns as the application is underway.
