Why I am campaigning against Foxton Travel Hub
I’m frankly disappointed with the proposals being put forward for Foxton. Growing up in Fowlmere, I have crossed at this level crossing there thousands of times and know the junction can turn into a pinch point on even quiet days.
Visiting the site, I heard and understood the concerns around safety at the crossing and the problems posed for pedestrians crossing the A10 to and from any car park. The GCP's proposals do not go far enough to alleviate concerns, and the last engagement exercise was not well publicised.
In the short term, I am calling for a longer and more in-depth consultation or a complete rethink of the project. In the longer term, I think it is vital that a permanent solution be found for the site that allows both rail and road travel without the need for a level crossing. This is something I have raised with ministers and will continue to fight for.
So far, I have:
- Visited the site, meeting local campaigners and the Parish Chairman.
- Raised concerns with the Department for Transport.
- Met with senior figures from Highways England and Network Rail to assess the proposals on-site.
- Met with both the Secretary of State for Transport and his Ministerial Team.
- Wrote to and met with officials from the necessary agencies, including Network Rail.
Campaign success
Having raised concerns via letter with the GCP, I was glad to see plans scaled back in line with the feedback from residents. Following successive meetings with Ministers and a sit down with the Secretary of State for Transport, I was also able to make the case for a rethink at the site. This is currently with the Department for Transport, and I will be advising residents on further steps as this progresses.