RAC calls for tunnel go-ahead

David Holmes CB, Chairman of the RAC Foundation, welcomed Secretary of State Ruth Kelly’s decision to grant approval for the Stonehenge Visitor Centre, but urged the Department for Transport to give the go-ahead for the A303 tunnel without further delay.

It is over 12 months since an authoritative consultants’ report made it clear that the 2.1km bored tunnel, as recommended following a 2005 Public Inquiry, is the best solution to the unique transport, heritage and environmental needs of the World Heritage Site.

The Foundation has criticised the Department for Transport for insisting on further reviews of the Published Scheme following concerns over rising costs. It is clear that only the deep-bore tunnel can meet the needs of the environment, provide swift and safe transport to the expanding economy of the South West, and protect the historic archaeology of the ancient site.

The road scheme is not just of national but international importance, and worth the extra cost. The monument is the only UK nomination in a competition to decide the “New Seven Wonders of the World,” and a win on 7 July could bring thousands of extra visitors to the stones.

Holmes said: “I have urged the Secretary of State for Transport to follow Ms Kelly’s example and give the go-ahead for the deep-bore tunnel as soon as possible. This unique opportunity to transform the setting of Britain’s greatest prehistoric monument must not be lost as a result of further foot-dragging over costs.

Implementation of the Published Scheme would enable the clutter which makes this site a national disgrace to be eliminated, and the dignity and isolation of the stones to be restored.”