Ashford Borough Council’s Executive has backed plans for a new junction on the M20 motorway which will reduce congestion and support the future growth of the town.

The Executive agreed in principle to support the Highways Agency’s preferred option for the proposed new M20 Junction 10a. This decision will now be formally reported back as part of the consultation exercise.

The preferred scheme involves the construction of a new roundabout east of the existing Junction 10 connecting directly to the A20 Hythe Road and a new link back to the A2070.

A new link road will also provide access to the proposed development area at Sevington and a new pedestrian/cycle bridge will be constructed between Kingsford Street and the A20.

Cllr John Kemp, portfolio holder for planning and development, said: “The proposed Junction 10a is an essential piece of infrastructure which will provide a solution to the long-standing congestion at the existing Junction10.

“The scheme represents a vital step towards realising Ashford’s potential for new development and investment and is fundamental for meeting the town’s growth aspirations.”

The Executive agreed that while supporting the preferred option, the Highways Agency should give further consideration to the increased capacity of the A20 between the existing J10 and the proposed J10a and access to the retail/industrial park and Church Road from the Barrey Road junction of the A2070.

The views will be reported back to the Highways Agency as the council’s formal response to the current consultation exercise.

The consultation period closes on 5 September and it is expected that a formal announcement on the preferred route will be made by the Government in 2009.

Media Release 0196/08

25/07/2008