By-pass threat returns (Andrew Simpson)

By-pass threat returns

August 4, 2004 6:00 PM

Further threat to the green fields around Northampton

With Developers again trying to get their bulldozers onto Dallington Heath, the threat of a new by-pass through open countryside around Kingsthorpe is back.

Both Labour and Tory councillors are looking to revive plans for a by-pass around the north of Northampton to go with new development. The old plans were for a road from the Weedon Road, round Duston, through part of Harlestone Firs, across the Brampton Valley on a large embankment to the Welford Road. Then onto Harborough Rd and and possibly Moulton Park.

NO to Development Corporation

Reidents packed a meeting attended by the non-party SOS group at the Pastures Community Centre recently. Sally Beardsworth stated her continued opposition to development at Dallington Heath. Lib Dem candidate Andrew Simpson challenged Labour MP Sally Keeble to oppose the creation of an un-elected Development Corpation which will spearhead new development. She wouldn't give a simple YES or NO answer.

Lords Help us

Clearly we cannot expect any help from our Labour MP. Labour and Tory councillors have rolled over and accepted the will of John Prescott without a wimper. But help may come from an unexpected source. Following petitions from local campaign groups, the House of Lords has decided to set up an inquiry by a special select committee. They will investigate the plans for an Urban Development Corporation later this year.