HUNDREDS of people have taken part in a consultation on a controversial A27 bypass.

The National Highways Agency say 800 people have had their say on proposals to create a new dual carriageway on the A27 at Arundel.

The statutory consultation started on January 11, and the agency has held six in person events, as well as online consultations.

It will close on Tuesday, March 8.

Senior project lead Andrew Jackson said: “We are pleased by the level of engagement in the scheme and we remain determined to ensure that everyone who has an interest in it gets the chance to have their say.

"There’s still plenty of time and various ways for people to share their views, and ask the team about any questions they may have, so I urge them to get involved.

"Those still wanting to give their views can still attend a consultation event to speak with the project team."

Events will be taking place at Walberton Village Hall, Littlehampton Town Council Manor House and the Cathedral Centre in Arundel throughout February.

The eight-kilometre "grey route" dual-carriageway aims to ease congestion around Arundel railway station.

It is part of the government’s £90 billion Road Investment Strategy.

The Highways Agency says the bypass will will reduce journey times, improve reliability and make the road safer.

But residents fear wildlife habitats and surrounding communities will suffer.

There is particular concern surrounding Arundel’s 12th century church, St Mary’s, as the road is expected to come within just 100 metres of the building.

In January, a protestor, who has links to Extinction Rebellion, staged fake burials across three beauty spots in Binsted as preliminary work begins.

A spokeswoman for the Stop the Arundel Bypass alliance said: “It just feels awful to have diggers, digging enormous holes in the landscape all round a beautiful area.

"It’s a tragedy."

There are also concerns that the £455 million project could exceed the agreed £350 million construction contract currently issued.

The Highways Agency said: "If people have any concerns I encourage them to feed them back to us through the consultation."

Have you got a story for us? Email news@theargus.co.uk or contact us here.

Follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram to keep up with all the latest news.

Sign up to our newsletter to get updates sent straight to your inbox.

You can also call us on 01273 021 400.