Representation by Tim Mullett
- Date submitted
- 10 January 2019
- Submitted by
- Members of the public/businesses
As an archaeology graduate, while I understand the desire and perhaps necessity to create an improved route for traffic on the A303 in the environs of Stonehenge, I am convinced that the current plans and arguments of Highway England for a dual carriageway and tunnel to bypass Stonehenge should be rejected. The damage and disruption to this irreplaceable ancient, historic and unique World Heritage site and setting would be enormous. Indeed UNESCO itself has advised that these plans should not go ahead which should raise an immediate red flag.
We are custodians of one of the most important archaeological sites in the world, still little understood and a focal point for the increasing spiritual movement worldwide. Any plans to divert traffic should place this importance at the top of its priority list, far above economics, speed etc. History will look back and judge very poorly plans carried out based on expediency and political interest as a priority.
Far from delivering a solution which improves the site, current plans are focused primarily on traffic issues and risk significant permanent damage to the World Heritage Site, its archaeology and setting and indeed may increase road noise for visitors to Stonehenge.
There are also concerns about damage to Blick Mead Mesolithic site and its setting.
Within the consultation there is an almost total lack of alternative options presented that would not damage the World Heritage Site. Why is this? Is the process being deliberately skewed?
At it stands there is a fine view of the site from the current roadway, meaning no payment is needed to see this extraordinary site. Driving past this site in my youth inspired me to study Archaeology and scientific history. Yet under current proposals all would have to pay simply for a glimpse of the stones, denying millions access to an important part of their heritage.
I also understand that there may be disturbance of rare bird species (eg Stone Curlews and Great Bustards) who nest in the area.