Overwhelming support for a western-route bypass and deep concern over the proposed incinerator have been revealed in a survey of Westbury residents.
The survey, carried out by Westbury MP Dr Andrew Murrison, received 598 responses from residents on issues including the proposed incinerator, a western-route bypass, waste and recycling services, and local leisure facilities.
Overall, awareness of the incinerator plans was high, with 92% of online respondents and 90% of written respondents saying they were at least somewhat aware of the proposals.
Air quality and health concerns were the biggest issue raised in relation to the incinerator plans, with 86% of respondents saying they were very concerned, while 85% were very concerned about environmental impact. Traffic congestion was also a major concern for 76% of respondents.
The report said the findings suggested “deep unease about the health and ecological consequences of the incinerator”, while concerns were also raised about HGV traffic, road damage and congestion on the A350 and through the town centre.
The survey also found strong backing for a western-route bypass, with 91% of respondents in favour and 6% opposed. A further 3% said they were uncertain or supported it conditionally.
The report described support for the bypass as the “most emphatic finding of the survey”, with many residents viewing it not only as a traffic measure, but also as a “town-centre regeneration and quality-of-life initiative”.
Reduced congestion was the most widely anticipated benefit of the bypass, selected by 97% of online respondents and 96% of written respondents.
Responses also highlighted concerns about NHS and GP access, potholes, housing growth without infrastructure investment and proposed parking charge increases. Concerns were also raised about the future of Westbury Swimming Pool, with many respondents describing it as a valued community facility in need of investment and refurbishment.
“I’m not surprised about the opposition to the incinerator and the support for the bypass, which is very much in line with the lobbying I have been doing over many years,” said Dr Murrison.
“It’s always good to make sure that you are reflecting accurately the aspirations of your constituents, so it’s good to hear that I’m on the right track.”
Below: the A350 through Westbury
