‘Leave us alone’... Residents’ anger over roadworks

Controversial plans to downgrade the Broadbridge Heath bypass faced huge backlash from residents this week.

Eight months of works are set to be carried out as West Sussex County Council begins a £2 million scheme on the A281 next month.

The works will see the road downgraded and split in two with drivers being unable to travel directly from the Farthings Hill roundabout to Newbridge roundabout.

Many have raised concerns over the traffic chaos the scheme will cause and have called on the money to be ‘better spent’ on other services.

Commenting on the County Times Facebook page Rachel Wood said: “What is the point of this? The road works okay as it is, why not leave well alone and spend the tax payers’ money on something sensible? Schools, doctors, dentists. Where has common sense gone?”

Gary Henshall said: “Why not leave as it is and spend the money on something we desperately need like a school?”

KT Godders said: “Having read the plans for this in detail I am aghast. Who on earth thought this was a good idea? The traffic leading into that roundabout sometimes goes all the way back towards Tanbridge school.

“There will be more cars in the future not less. Particularly given all the new houses being built. This is utter insanity.”

Penny Shazell said: “It’s going to be a joke trying to get anywhere from Broadbridge Heath. Leave us alone we’ve had building and roadworks here for as long as I can remember. Ridiculous.”

However, not everyone was opposed to the plan. Mark William-Marshall Mac said: “Looks good. More provisions for cyclists can only be good.”

What do you think of the proposed works? Send your views to ct.letters@jpimedia. co.uk