We must act now on this danger road

MP CAMPAIGNS FOR IMPROVEMENTS TO A249

Hugh Robertson has written to the Chairman of the Maidstone Joint Transportation Board to ask him to prioritise road improvements to the A249, linking the M2 with the M20. This request follows a meeting between The County Showground and Maidstone Borough Council at which he expressed huge dissatisfaction with the current state of the road.

Hugh's argument is based on three factors:

1. The A249, as the major link in Kent between the M2 and M20 is treated by drivers as a motorway. The road is not suitable for this sort of use.

2. Volumes of traffic are increasing.

3. The development of The County Showground, the Detling Airfield Industrial Site and the White House Wood has increased pressure on the road.

Hugh, who has been involved with the A249 Action Group since its inception, has therefore asked the Maidstone Joint Transportation Group to bring forward its programme of improvements including the installation of two roundabouts to enable both residents and business users to operate safely. Their installation would also slow the speed of traffic.

Hugh said: "The way the A249 is used has changed considerably in recent years. It is vital that Kent Highways recognise this and bring forward plans to improve the road as a top priority."