A proposal to dual a short stretch of the A17 at Holbeach has come under fresh scrutiny.
Plans for two new roundabouts – one at Peppermint Junction (A17/A151) and another on the A151 near the travellers’ site – have been submitted by Lincolnshire County Council.
Creation of dual carriageway between the proposed A17 roundabout and Boston Road roundabout does not figure; it is due to be part of a second phase of work.
A public consultation event was held in Holbeach in September, with 91 per cent of people who filled in response cards giving support to the Peppermint Junction proposals. However, almost half of respondents were against the A17 dualling, prompting the rethink.
A design and access statement accompanying the planning application said: “The roundabouts scheme gained very strong support.
“The dual carriageway scheme…received a more neutral, slightly positive response and is under question as to whether this development will go ahead.”
The plans have been brought forward to improve safety and traffic flow at Peppermint Junction, which, in turn, is expected to reduce the number of vehicles going through the town centre.
The statement says: “The development will provide a valuable investment into the local community, improving road safety for traffic moving through the junction at the A17/A151.
“Increased access in the area will benefit potential residential and economic development within the local area. Existing agricultural activity will be able to continue on the land, with the overall economic viability of the agricultural business enhanced by the investment.”
The plans lodged with South Holland District Council also make mention of provision of a footbridge in the future. No site is mentioned.
Last July, Holbeach mum Paula Hayes told The Voice of the need for improved pedestrian facilities. In school term time she crosses the A17 about eight times a day.
The plan is expected to be determined by Wednesday, January 6. The county council hopes to start work in autumn 2016, with completion anticipated in nine months.
A linked plan for 1,000 homes on neighbouring land owned by the county council, Bovis Homes and a Mr and Mrs Goodley is close to being submitted.
County council property officer Kevin Kendall said: “There are currently two housing developments proposed for Holbeach, one of which has received planning permission and the other is to seek approval shortly. Lincolnshire County Council will be seeking contributions from both to ensure that any requirement for new school places is taken into account.”
