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Highways England is making improvements to the M2 junction 5 / A249 Stockbury Roundabout which they say will support improvements to safety and the potential for economic development and growth in the region.
The scheme includes a new flyover which will create an uninterrupted link for drivers staying on the A249 and will free up extra space on the Stockbury roundabout.
Objections
Stockbury Parish Council and MP Helen Whately, with residents and business owners, have raised concerns and objections over the current plans put forward to upgrade the junction. Because of these objections, the Secretary of State has now ordered a Public Inquiry to take place.
It's believed all would support the scheme providing a bridge or underpass is added to the proposed new road layout. They are concerned that as a result of the upgrade scheme, the village could be cut off and become dangerous and difficult to get to.
They acknowledge and support the need to modernise the Stockbury roundabout but cannot support the current scheme which they believe will irreparably harm the cohesion of the community, which has small businesses and significant settlements on both sides of the A249.
Public Enquiry - Cancelled
The Department for Transport has now cancelled the two-week Public Inquiry announced by the Secretary of State which was due to open on Tuesday 10th March 2020 and continue for up to two weeks.
The inquiry was due to be held at Hempstead House, London Road, Bapchild, Sittingbourne ME9 9PP in the Heritage Suite.
Members of the public were invited to attend the proceedings but if they wished to make an objection, declare support or have specific questions, they had to submit their intention of this to the Inspector by 17th February 2020.
An independent Programme Officer was appointed. Information about how to appear at the inquiry, the programme and additional documents were made available on their website at: http://programmeofficers.co.uk/m2j5
If you have questions specifically about the inquiry you should contact Yvonne Parker directly via Email: posltd@virginmedia.com
Full details of the orders and improvement scheme can be found on the Highways England website at: https://highwaysengland.co.uk/projects/m2-junction-5-improvements
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