County Hall green light for scheme, now the paperwork starts

An upgrade to one of the busiest roads in the county has been given the thumbs-up, but there’s a long way to go before motorists will see the difference.

Herts County Council has put plans to improve the A602 linking Stevenage and Ware, which provides a crucial link between the A1(M) and the A10, on the table.

But before the road crews can move in land along the route required for the scheme has to be secured and planning permission granted,

At the moment the road is regularly clogged with traffic, particularly in rush hour, and the project aims to cut journey times and create a more reliable route.

Councillor Terry Douris, who overseas highways issues at County Hall, said: “As our population continues to increase it is vital that our infrastructure can cope.

“We are working with landowners and hope to secure any land needed through negotiation rather than compulsory purchase order, which is always a last resort.”

Before any planning application is submitted, there will be a public consultation and exhibition which is planned for early next year. You can find out more online at www.hertsdirect.org/a602.