Future of Stonehenge

sir – Since 1986, when Stonehenge became a World Heritage Site, it has been clear that a solution was needed to the A303 cutting through one of the world’s most precious prehistoric landscapes, choking it with traffic. It is a complex case and therefore not surprising that it has taken this long to find a solution. The planning of the proposed tunnel (Letters, November 16) has been thorough, however, and we believe this is the right decision.

It is a unique opportunity to return one of the world’s most important ancient landscapes to something closer to its prehistoric appearance. It will reunite the landscape, while allowing people to understand and explore more of the site on foot – something that the road has prevented.

The archaeology near the line of the planned route has been evaluated, will be fully supervised and, where necessary, excavated as work proceeds. The route is further away from the stones than the existing road and will avoid burial mounds. It should also prevent light interference that may detract from the winter solstice. The tunnel depth is lower than the remains, and safeguards are in place to ensure the highest standard of archaeological mitigation.

We will advise Highways England to ensure that the scheme is sensitive, minimises harm and does justice to the future of this World Heritage Site. Duncan Wilson

Chief Executive, Historic England London EC4