Please see recent update the Parish Council has received from Ward Councillor Mary Walsh.
I am writing to update you on progress of the M1-A6 Link Road project.
I am aware that we are currently pursuing another solution to the HGVs and speeding cars that have been causing problems in Church Road, with access to the village from the A6.
Many times I have tried to find a resolution to this as have others, and recently have managed to get arrangements in place for a traffic monitor to help identify the type, timing and speed of traffic using this access. Not for the first time I expect, but new eyes may be able to help find new plans – this is as a first step towards improving safety.
Meanwhile, some residents of Church Road have taken my advice and are looking for opportunities for off road parking in the village. Perhaps the PC can assist with this. Following a recent briefing as to addressing the change to electric vehicles – it may be possible to identify land that could also be used as a local electric charging point. There are grants available to help with such projects – which may be helpful if these two objectives are linked.
You are probably aware that there was a non-material Amendment recently added to the planning portal in relation to the Link Road.
The planning permission will run out early next year and the amendment is to create a compound for vehicles and access to the land, required, in order to create the actual access to the A6 and the first 30- 50 metres of the road in line with the approved plans This will secure the planning permission as granted.
I cannot say more about this in terms of future works as it will likely be linked to the progress of development at Houghton Regis and no doubt also on finding a company willing to replace Pro-Logis, and develop the Sundon RFI site. Both elements of which are required to contribute to funding the road.
However, I am sure the PC and residents will see this as good news for the future of the village.
I hope to see you all soon.
Kind regards
Mary
Cllr Mary Walsh