Trees lost in plans to dual busy A road

The dualling of the problematic A28 in Ashford was also discussed at the Joint Transportation Board on Tuesday.

Project manager John Farmer from Kent County Council said the plans for the busy Chart Road would see it transformed into a dual carriageway between the Tank and Matalan roundabouts.

The £33m scheme also includes plans to add footpaths and cycle paths along both sides of the road and improve the junction to Loudon Way which leads to the Godinton Park housing estate.

As part of the plans, some trees would be lost on the Godinton side of the road, and “traffic noise screening” will be added.

Cllr Bernard Heyes (Con. Godinton) said: “A major concern is to protect the residents of Godinton Park, which to a degree it has been achieved.

“But I still think we need more details of noise mitigation.”

Cllr Jessamy Blanford (Con. Great Chart with Singleton), said the widened road would make a big difference to people who move to Chilmington Green.

People are expected to be consulted on the plans in November.

Subject to approval, it is estimated that construction could begin in 2018/19 and take between 18 months and two-years.

Foreign lorries parked at Orbital Park