Residents asked for views on new North Thanet Link plans

A consultation has been launched seeking views on a new highway link for north Thanet with walking and cycling facilities.

Kent County Council (KCC) has opened a public consultation for the scheme, which includes a new road running to the south-east of the A28 Canterbury Road covering about 10 kilometres – just over six miles.

The plans are designed to improve journey times and include enhancements to junctions along the route such as widening of the existing Manston Road and Shottendane Road, off-road walking and cycling facilities with crossing points and sustainable drainage along much of the route.

If given the go-ahead the works are estimated to cost about £60 million. Funding options are being considered and KCC officers are exploring opportunities for a grant from the Department for Transport’s (DfT) Major Road Network fund.

KCC’s Cabinet Member for Highways and Transport, David Brazier said: “North Thanet Link is designed to manage traffic pressure on the busy A28, reduce traffic within Acol village, improve journey times, road safety and provide better facilities for walking and cycling.

“The change in population expected in the east of the county means we need to prepare for growth and it is essential we can continue to keep Kent moving.

“The views expressed in this public consultation will help us to develop KCC’s plans as we prepare our Outline Business Case to the DfT.”

Two public drop-in events have been planned by the team behind the proposals. They will take place at Westgate-on-Sea Town Council between 3pm and 7pm on 15th May and The Centre in Birchington between 3pm and 7pm on 1st June.

People can review the initial scheme proposals in the consultation document and have their say from today [Thursday 11th May] until Wednesday 14th June by visiting www.kent.gov.uk/norththanetlink.

For queries or requests for hard copies, email norththanetlink@kent.gov.uk or call 03000 422331.

For alternative formats, email alertnativeformats@kent.gov.uk or call 03000 421553 (text relay service number 18001 03000 421553).

Both phone numbers go to answer machines, which are monitored during office hours.