Andrew Turner the Island’s MP has branded proposals to bring in road pricing in the New Forest without consultation as ‘outrageous’. The New Forest National Park Authority, have listed introducing road pricing as one of a number of options in a 182 page consultation document on the future of the New Forest.
Mr Turner said;
“For this proposal to be ‘slipped in’ without proper consultation with neighbouring constituencies whose residents would be seriously affected is quite wrong. This unelected and unaccountable quango has apparently said there are no ‘specific plans at this stage’ to introduce tolls. Well we all know what that means! They will use this sham ‘consultation’ which very few people are aware of and even fewer would have the time to even read to justify later decisions. It could well turn out to be an extra toll for people to reach the Island via the Lymington/Yarmouth route. It is completely outrageous, unfair and fundamentally undemocratic.”
There have already been large protests against the plans on the mainland and local MPs Desmond Swayne and Dr Julian Lewis believe the New Forest National Park Authority should be abolished. Mr Turner will be adding his support to their campaign.
END Contact : Andrew Turner’s office 01983 530808 or mobile 07799 866466
