Rallying call for supporters of Royston underpass scheme

THE man behind a planned �3.7million underpass for Royston is calling for those who support the scheme to get in touch. With a public inquiry set to take place into the underpass, planned for Coombes Hole, Doug Drake, chairman of the Underpass Support G

THE man behind a planned �3.7million underpass for Royston is calling for those who support the scheme to get in touch.

With a public inquiry set to take place into the underpass, planned for Coombes Hole, Doug Drake, chairman of the Underpass Support Group, wants to hear from people in favour of the scheme.

Mr Drake, who championed the project during his time as Royston county councillor, said: "A number of people are against the construction of the underpass, and it is therefore important that evidence of support and the need for the project to go ahead are available to the inquiry."

Compulsory purchase orders were issued in September by Hertfordshire County Council so that it could acquire land needed for the scheme, which will link the Burns Road estate with the rest of Royston.

This enraged residents, many of whom will lose parts of their gardens on a temporary or permanent basis while construction takes place.

Their complaints mean it is likely a public inquiry will be held early next year.

Supporters of the underpass argue that creating a safe rail crossing will reduce illegal crossing of the line, give improved access to schools and the town's leisure centre, and join together communities currently severed by the railway tracks.

Any letters of support can be sent to Mr Drake at 4, The Green, Royston, SG8 7AA.