Residents have shared their relief after it was announced that plans for a major road redevelopment have been delayed - for now.

The controversial plans to build a bypass on the A27 at Arundel would have seen a new stretch of road cut through the countryside and had faced opposition from residents close to the preferred route of the bypass.

On Friday itwas announced the project has now been delayed until at least 2025, and residents opposed to the plans are "relieved".

"It is a triumph for common sense and a huge relief for the residents of Walberton, Binsted, Tortington and Fontwell," said Sally Ward from Walberton friends and neighbours group.

"We would like to thank the hundreds of residents who have come out in rain and shine to protest about the destruction and cost of the bypass over the last two years.

"The reason given by the government for the push forward into the 2025-2030 tranche cited environmental and scoping issues, which we have campaigned on tirelessly over the last two years, as well as the need to listen to stakeholders."

In a ministerial statement, Transport Secretary Mark Harper announced that the bypass plans would be delayed, alongside other major projects such as HS2.

MOST READ:

Get more stories delivered to your inbox every day by signing up to our morning newsletter

Kay Wagland, from Arundel's branch of the South Coast alliance for transport and environment, said: "It is a step forward, but more is needed in the face of the climate emergency.

"Mark Harper also mentioned reviewing funding for active travel – that would be entirely the wrong thing to do.

"We need much more investment in walking, cycling and buses instead of a resurrection of this scheme after two years."

Emma Tristram of the Arundel Bypass neighbourhood committee said: "This is a temporary reprieve for four villages, for the much-loved countryside which the bypass would have divided, for the rich wildlife habitats, and for the classic setting of Arundel.

"But it does not go far enough, and the future is not clear."

Sally Ward said: "We are not putting our feet up yet and still support a viable, less destructive, alternative. 

"If and when the planning inspectorate get around to looking at the proposals, we hope this alternative will gather their support."