To what extent might a decision to put a road on a trackbed, thus blocking a railway corridor be an example of Parochialism trumping Localism in the St James’ Road Link Example?

                                                                                                                                                  11 April 2018

Press Release

To what extent might a decision to put a road on a trackbed, thus blocking a railway corridor be an example of Parochialism trumping Localism in the St James’ Road Link Example?

ERTA is gravely concerned whether the Northampton Borough Council decides a parochial consideration for the St James’- London Road link trumps wider considerations. The road ERTA believes will link 2 congestion hot spots, introduce 24x7 traffic, pollution and congestion to a mainly residential area and block the railway formation for a Northampton-Bedford rail link, a strategic consideration.

ERTA has made tireless efforts to raise objections to the road link which has a short-term appeal as a gimmick for traffic reduction but does nothing about growth and once full what other options urban Northampton has?

ERTA Media Spokesperson said “It is well established that a new modern Thameslink style railway to Bedford would enable numerous rail travel opportunities including quick access to Bedford, Luton, Luton Airport, Thameslink and the East-West Rail to Cambridge and those audiences to Northampton town centre, minus the traffic and parking competition. It offers strategic gain and regenerative benefits and with the new University Waterside Campus and Delapre Abbey means a new Station to serve the Northampton South area could be highly beneficial. If we implement this road, we deny Northampton these options and that is detrimental.”

End Press Release

Further comment: Mr Richard Pill, ERTA Media Spokesperson 01234 330090/richard.erta@gmail.com