Govermnent approves funding for link road

Objectors to the controversial development believed the economic downturn could lead to vital funding being withdrawn. However, despite these rumours of a government wobble, the secretary for state responsible for overseeing the project this week confirmed it would be going ahead as planned.

Sadiq Khan MP met with Michael Foster and reassured the Hastings MP that the scheme would be getting funding as promised.

The minister had previously asked for further details, due to the significant cost of the scheme, and anti-road lobbyists saw this as a sign financial commitment from the government could be on the wane.

However, during this week's meeting, Mr Foster explained to the minister the extra cost was a result of new environmental measures and that the current estimate was only slightly higher than at the same time last year.

He also assured the minister that any objectors to the scheme would have the chance to make their views known.

Although there will be no formal public inquiry, objectors will be able to express their opinion during an inquiry into the manner in which the land around the proposed road was purchase. This is set to start on November 10 at the White Rock Theatre. If the inquiry passes without any major hiccups, construction will get under way in spring 2010.

A delighted Mr Foster said: "Of course I understand this is an expensive proposal and I also understand there are still some who object to it, but I believe the overwhelming consensus of my constituents is this road is vital both for environmental and economic reasons, and I am pleased I have been able to assure the minister that that is the case."

And it was a sentiment which enjoyed cross-party support. Conservative councillor Matthew Lock, who is working on the scheme for East Sussex County Council, said: "I very much welcome this decision. It is a key milestone for the project, which will improve transport links and support the regeneration of Bexhill and Hastings for people and businesses."

Barker's cautious welcome

BEXHILL MP Greg Barker has given a cautious welcome to the news that the government has given a green light to Bexhill to Hastings link road funding.

Mr Barker met Hastings Conservative prospective parliamentary candidate Amber Rudd and concerned local residents at Bexhill Road on Friday to discuss the issue.

He said afterwards: "I am relieved that ministers finally responded to my demands for a decision on funding albeit several months late.

"This news is welcome overall but I remain cosncerned that Labour ministers are still reluctant to fund this vital scheme, so I shall be keeping up the pressure over the coming months until we get the final funding in place."