CAMPAIGNERS against a controversial bypass are to stage a silent protest as the consultation period nears its end.

The protest will take place outside the Walberton Village Hall at 11am on Monday, February 21, during a consultation event held by National Highways Agency.

Members of the “stop the Arundel Bypass alliance” will be displaying banners and posters made by child from Walberton and Binstead Primary School, playcentre and nursey.

The Argus: Protestors against a controversial A27 bypass are to stage a silent protestProtestors against a controversial A27 bypass are to stage a silent protest

Protestors say they hope the event will “show the strength of feeling and concern” about the new dual carriageway.

The preferred route, revealed by National Highways in October 2020, avoids the South Downs National Park, but is close to the villages of Binstead, Walberton and Tortington.

Sally Ward, from Walberton Friends and Neighbours said: "I've spoken with Walberton Pre-School and Nursery, and we share a deep anxiety that this ill-thought out plan will result in inevitable injuries or deaths to children trying to get in and out of their education and play centres.

“We also fear that National Highways are not listening to our very real concerns. We want to express our strong opposition to National Highways’ plans".

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.

Highways England is holding a series of in person and online public meetings as part of the public consultation.

It will close on Tuesday, March 8.

The revised plans have seen the route move away from the Grade-II listed St Mary's Church and contractors will also be asked to look at ways of reducing the carbon footprint of its construction.

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.”

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