Statement on the government’s decision to cancel the A31 Improvement Plan

Farnham Town Council expresses its profound disappointment following the government’s announcement that long-standing plans for future improvements to the A31, from Coxbridge to the Shepherd and Flock roundabout, will not be progressed.

The A31 is a vital transport and economic link for Farnham and the wider South East. Traffic volumes have increased significantly over the past 20 years, and the road is now approaching capacity, as demonstrated by the daily congestion experienced along this route.

The impact on Farnham town centre is also substantial. Whenever there is verge maintenance, drainage works, or roadworks, the town centre suffers from severe congestion and gridlock.

However, the Town Council’s primary concern is pedestrian safety at the Hickley’s Corner junction. Following three recent tragic incidents, Farnham Town Council supported the community initiative to introduce temporary signage to alert pedestrians crossing this busy junction.

The Town Council urges Surrey County Council to continue its safety audit and implement appropriate measures to improve safety at this crossing, ensuring that pedestrians can cross safely and with greater confidence.

Farnham Town Council remains deeply concerned about the implications of the government’s decision and calls for continued action to address both the growing pressures on the A31 and the urgent need to improve pedestrian safety at Hickley’s Corner.

Cllr George Murray, Leader of Farnham Town Council