Up to speed

I wanted to check that the Department for Transport knew that Maria Caulfield MP had changed her mind about the A27, and now wants funds to be spent on improving the existing road between Lewes and Polegate. I wrote before Ms Caulfield got a job at the Department, but it's good to know that the civil servants analysing new projects know what she thinks....

Dear Mr Rogers

A27 East of Lewes

Thank you for your email of 8 August asking if the Department is aware of the views expressed by Maria Caulfield MP regarding potential offline and on route options for enhancement of the A27 between Lewes and Polegate. 

I am happy to confirm that we are aware of the MP’s comments on this topic as reported in the local press.

Yours sincerely,

Michael Read-Leah
Road Investment Strategy Futures Division

Maria from the Ministry

Another from the You-Couldn't-Make-It-Up Department of Politics.

Delighted to have been appointed PPS to the Transport Secretary @grantshapps . Lots to do to prepare for leaving the EU on 31st October, but also to improve passenger experience on all forms of public transport .

— Maria Caulfield MP (@mariacaulfield) August 5, 2019

Pop pickers

The non-elected shadow group "Transport for the South East", led by Rupert Clubb (above), has submitted its own list of priority schemes for major roads in the area, bidding for a share of a £3.5bn pot.

The problem is that TfSE is a shadow body, going through the early stages of public consultation about basic strategy and mission, and there's been no public consultation on these "Top Ten", and certainly no involvement from you and me in 'shortlisting': "Shortlisted schemes for the South East were assessed against a range of national criteria as well as Transport for the South East’s strategic objectives for the region, which focus on sustainable economic growth, improved quality of life and the environment."

If this new body really cared about the environment, do you think they should be so excited about their favourite roads ?