No new transport needed for SnOasis

A TRANSPORT consultant today claimed that a 400 plus home development proposed for Great Blakenham would need no new public transport provision.

Andy Jenkinson, who was cross examined during day eight of the SnOasis public inquiry, said he did not feel the building of 421 homes - one of three applications currently being scrutinised by the inquiry - needed more bus services.

In a series of exchanges he was challenged by William Upton, representing SnOasis Community Alliance, who suggested the development, if given the go ahead alone, aside from the massive SnOasis leisure complex and railway station, would be “car-based”.

Mr Upton suggested that the Super Route 88 bus was the “only non-car alternative for people that want to go into Ipswich”.

Mr Jenkinson replied: “That and cycles, yes.”

Mr Upton continued his arguments by suggesting that Mr Jenkinson did not think the quality of public transport to and from Great Blakenham needed to be improved.

Mr Jenkinson replied: “That's not something that has been considered in discussion with planners at Suffolk County Council. The bus services that exist are deemed to be adequate.”

On being questioned by Mr Upton, Mr Jenkinson said that he did not think it was necessary to improve bus services.

He queried Mr Upton's use of the phrase “car-based development and said he was unsure what was meant by this.

Mr Jenkinson said: “Clearly there is no restrictions on people owning a car and parking will be provided as part of the development. “There is adequate public provision for Ipswich and Stowmarket that exist for journeys other than by car.”

The public inquiry which is being held in Ipswich Corn Exchange was then adjourned by planning inspector John Gray due to difficulties with the sound system.

n. Do you think the bus service in the area needs to be improved? Write to Your Letters, Evening Star, 30 Lower Brook Street, Ipswich, IP4 1AN or email eveningstarletters@eveningstar.co.uk