Representation by Laurence Elvin
- Date submitted
- 7 January 2019
- Submitted by
- Members of the public/businesses
As an archaeologist and visitor to the west country throughout my 73 years, I object to this proposal to remove the historic view of the stones from the A303, which is a major feature of this historic asset. Many more people across the world will have seen this view than have ever visited the stones close up and most of them will be unaware of this proposal, because of the poor publicity beyond Wiltshire. I do not believe that the effect of burying the A303 will add to the visitor experience in any significant way, when paying to visit the stones; certainly not value for money.
I am appalled at the apparent disregard, by Highways Agency, National Trust and others, of Unesco's condemnation of the scheme.
I object to the damage to known features in this unique prehistoric landscape, such as Blick Mead and the virtual certainty that there will be other archaeological remains, yet to be discovered in the path of the tunnel. Prehistoric remains often leave subtle clues of their presence and require careful and time-consuming investigation. This major civil engineering project is unlikely to be compatible with such archaeological work and what will happen if another internationally important monument is discovered in the path of the tunnel?
I object to the the creation of the tunnel portals, ventilation shafts etc in the World Heritage Site, which will certainly have a negative effect on the enjoyment of walkers roaming the landscape. These features have been illustrated in computer images as without fencing, which is deceptive and impractical.
I object to the apparent failure to propose other options to relieve congestion on the A303, which is the Highways Agency's main justification for this very expensive and damaging scheme. I thought it had been learned many years ago that major road schemes often just push the problem to another location.