Wider picture (From Gazette Series)

Wider picture

I REFER to Keith Watson's article (Gazette Sept 24 2004), 'New bypass being called for' and the editorial comment on the same subject. I am also enclosing a copy letter dated Feb 1 2006 which explains that a proposal to 'improve' the B4066 is being put forward. This is despite a meeting and exhibition in 2004 when it was made quite clear that, like your newspaper, the people living in the area overwhelmingly felt neither road was viable.

It was, however, noted that while there are almost 50 people living along the B4066 there are only a handful in Alkington Lane and that Alkington Lane could be widened easily as it has a field running its entire length to the south. A sizeable path and cycle/horse riding path, with safety barriers, could also be accommodated. On top of this the fact has been ignored that in September 2004 councillors voted that Alkington Lane was their choice of the two but that they favoured a bypass over both options.

One asks the question, why is public opinion going to be ignored and the very least favourable option used? Only a relatively small sum will be saved.

To widen the B4066 sufficiently they will have to go right up against properties. Any pavements or tracks will be too narrow and dangerous to use. Surely cycle lanes and pathways, not to mention areas where unpredictable horses are likely to be ridden should be ultra safe?

Anyone now walking or cycling along the B4066 takes their life in their hands but as they intend to weight limit Alkington Lane (which at present bears some heavy traffic) to do so when the road is 100 percent busier will be suicidal.

I can quote from a letter from Glos Environment which says, 'it is necessary to look for solutions and make maximum use of existing infrastructure whilst minimising environmental intrusion and potential safety problems.' In that case how can they argue that the B4066 is the answer?

It seems our planners would rather throw money away on inadequate and dangerous projects than find a solution to the increasing movement of HGV traffic.

Pam and Brian Hillier Berkeley Heath Road Berkeley