The Road to Victory is Built on Small Successes

Protest outside SHDC offices

An article released by LCC today states that they will reconsider alternative options to the middle section of the so-called relief road:https://www.lincolnshire.gov.uk/news/county-council-to-investigate-options-for-central-section-of-spalding-relief-road/133504.article This is a partial success for our Bourne Road and Horseshoe Road residents, who get a bit of breathing space with the knowledge that possibilities are being considered that may not involve having their homes demolished.

This is a testament to all those members of SPARR who have taken action since we first formed, be it by attending protests, writing letters, signing petitions or distributing leaflets. The visibility of SPARR in town and in the media is working: LCC and SHDC can't just make decisions without listening to residents who will be affected. We must keep this momentum going. The priority right now is to object to planning applications for the North and South sections of this road, to encourage councillors and officers to go back to the drawing board and come up with a solution that will actually aid traffic congestion in Spalding, not make it worse. Please make an objection (visit the "Get Involved" section on our website) - the deadline is 25th April 2019.

Since our last update, as well as organising various protests in town, we have been busy writing to various environmental protection organisations including the RSPB, Lincolnshire Wildlife Trust and Lincolnshire Bat Group. If you are able to provide evidence and testimony of recent activity of any protected species in areas where the new road and housing will go, please contact our SPARR member John on jbkb45@hotmail.co.uk

We've also had a meeting with Sir John Hayes, our MP. He is very supportive of SPARR, and concerned that what has been promised as a relief road will not deliver, as well as making a significant impact on local wildlife. He has stated that he will write to relevant ministers and bring the current incarnation of the SWRR (Spalding Western Relief Road) to their attention.

Finally, we are hoping to take our protest to Lincoln. There will be a meeting at LCC's council offices in Lincoln on Monday, 29th April 2019 at 10am involving the Highways and Transport Scrutiny Committee. We need at least 40 people with placards to make an impact, and we will inform the media. If you are able to come, please get in touch with us. Also, if you own a coach or know someone who can provide one for free or at a reduced rate, please let us know.