COUNTY and district leaders are calling for a delay to HS2’s proposed nine month road closure to part of the A425 in Southam.
Stratford District Council (SDC) and Warwickshire County Council are calling for the work to begin in January to allow time to organise signs and communication, and allow businesses to make alternative arrangements.
Haulage firms such as Skelcher’s said the proposed detour is likely to cost them between £5,000 to £8,000 per lorry over the period.
The proposal is to close part of the A425 between Southam and Leamington, from the Dallas Burston Polo Grounds to the Ufton Crossroads, until July for the work to be carried out. It is a change from the original plans to re-route the A425 with a temporary road.
Leaders say it will also allow time to ensure no other works are taking place, including on Fosse Way, Welsh Road West, potential junction improvements around Southam and at the Lighthorne Heath development.
It was also agreed starting in the new year would not necessarily delay the works by two months, due to poorer weather, darker nights and the festive break.
The group has also requested to see the financial figures as well as the environmental impact assessment of the new proposals different to those approved by Parliament.
SDC leader Tony Jefferson said: “We had a very constructive meeting with some sensible proposals put forward. We will ensure that our Warwickshire MPs are fully briefed on this matter as well as involving the HS2 minister. We also want to ensure that the HS2 complaints commissioner is made aware of HS2’s actions.
“This proposed closure will have a devastating effect on residents and the local economy, which is still recovery and coping with the coronavirus.”
