Press Release: CPRE campaigns for better rural transport

CPRE campaigns for better rural transport

The Campaign to Protect Rural England's Hampshire branch held its biennial Transport Symposium at Colden Common Community Pavilion, near Twyford on Wednesday 14th November. The morning attracted CPRE members from across the county.

Transport issues currently being monitored by chairman Donald Stewart and his colleagues include air transport matters at Southampton International Airport, Farnborough Airport, the proposed widening of air corridors over the New Forest and Andover, plus the current problems of Lower Upham Airstrip. After reviewing each situation, CPRE members write letters of objection as needed and monitor developments alongside local councillors or residents. Further details for press can be obtained via our media officer on 01730 894123.

The expert speakers then covered a number of subjects including traffic issues in the Waterside and New Forest, the subject of a bypass for Lyndhurst, the importance of reducing congestion on the UK's busy road network, and the 'de-cluttering' of Hampshire's rural roads.

Alan Drinkwater, the chairman of CPRE South East's Transport Group, presented a new, draft framework for use by CPRE campaigners in reviewing bypass proposals.

A colourful presentation by Hannah Baker, senior transport planner from the County Council's environment department, described the background and different options open to Lyndhurst in solving its congestion and pollution problems. Peter Roberts of the New Forest Association then gave a fascinating, illustrated historical perspective in his presentation about the issues surrounding a bypass for Lyndhurst.

From left to right: C Napier. P Roberts, D Stewart, M Chamberlain, H Baker, A Drinkwater

A refreshing, yet challenging presentation by Road Users' Alliance director, Tim Green, made the audience sit up and take note. The RUA is a lobbying body with a strong membership, the main objective of which is to achieve increased and sustained investment in the strategic road network. Tim described how roads should be built to modern standards, citing the Newbury Bypass example as a high-quality example. He stressed the need for good roads and access to port, rail and buses to support today's modern lifestyle and emphasised how we depend on the 'car' for many needs such as home-care for the elderly, access to healthcare and employment.

CPRE Hampshire campaigners are keen to learn more about effective, modern road-building that supports the countryside, flora and fauna, such as building bypasses underground, as well as shared transport and better access to public transport. Anyone with an interest in these topics is invited to contact CPRE on 01962 843655.

Matt Chamberlain from Hampshire County Council's environment department gave the final presentation to update CPRE members on the rural improvement processes being piloted along the A32 in line with CPRE's national Clutter Campaign, which has the endorsement of the RAC.

The Council is leading the UK in piloting a scheme to improve the appearance of signage along the road, reducing the signage in a safe manner at all times. Matt explained how the Council is going one step further than 'sign rationalisation' in looking at how the villages along the route can be improved through the use of different road surfaces and use of shared space.

Donald Stewart of CPRE Hampshire, said:

"Matt has been instrumental in developing the initiative and setting in motion consulting services to conduct trials and set standards for this important road safety and countryside policy. CPRE are indebted to him for his proactive approach and patience in listening to our concerns."

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CPRE/H/118

Notes to editors

The Campaign to Protect Rural England, Hampshire Branch (CPRE Hampshire) is a registered charity and a branch of the national CPRE charity.

CPRE Hampshire strives to promote the beauty, tranquility and diversity of the countryside of Hampshire by the sustainable use of land and other resources in town and country, and encouraging the biodiversity and well-being of rural communities.

For membership information on CPRE, please contact:
Pam Mason, administrator, CPRE Hampshire
Tel: 01962 843655
Email:admin@cprehampshire.org.uk

For all media enquiries, please contact:
Keren Burney, media & communications officer, CPRE Hampshire
Tel: 01730 894123 Mobile: 07876 780065
Email: kburney000@aol.com