Western Bypass - I'll use Compulsory Purchase to Ensure Final Section Will Go Ahead as Soon as Possible

I have announced this week that, with a funding mechanism in place for the crucial final section of the Bedford Western Bypass, I will use Compulsory Purchase Order powers to overcome the final main barrier to the project and secure the land needed for it to go ahead. There are three parties with landholdings on the route of the 'missing link' between the A428 at Bromham and the A6 at Clapham, including the Council, and one of them is simply being obstructive. I will have no hesitation in using a Compulsory Purchase Order to make sure the project goes ahead as soon as possible.

The bypass is a crucial development for the future of our Borough, with overwhelming support for the project due to the benefits it will bring in terms of cutting congestion, improving air quality in town and helping to bring economic growth. The completion of the bypass really is an exciting development for the borough, and as I say I will make sure that not only does it go ahead, but that it happens as soon as possible. I have directed Council officers to work up a report on the issue to enable me to make a formal decision, and this will be ready in the coming weeks.

This week I went along to the Clapham end of the route, by the A6, where the picture which accompanies this posting was taken. I also recorded a short video on this, and will post that up here on www.mayordave.org.uk shortly.