Highway Network and Capacity
During the determination of the previous planning application, some residents raised concerns about traffic and highway impacts, even though Suffolk County Council, as the Local Highways Authority, raised no objections regarding safety or the capacity of the local network. As a responsible developer that takes community concerns seriously, Jaynic is committed to improving the situation for local people.
To support the current application, further engagement has taken place with Suffolk County Council Highways to discuss where traffic surveys should be taken from, any mitigation required and also how to improve sustainable travel links from the site to Stanton and beyond.
A New Direct Route to the A143
The new roundabout infrastructure will create a dedicated link to the A143 for both existing and future employment uses at Shepherds Grove West. This purpose-built connection means:
- Commercial vehicles will no longer need to travel through Stanton, including past the Stanton Primary school.
- Travel Plans will set out approved routes for HGVs and other commercial traffic, ensuring they avoid local villages.
- Upthorpe will experience a significant reduction in HGV movements along Grove Lane and Upthorpe Road thanks to the new direct A143 access.
- This approach directly addresses the concerns raised by residents and provides a long-term solution for managing commercial traffic.
Improved Walking, Cycling and Public Transport Links
- The development will also enhance connectivity for pedestrians and cyclists along Grove Lane, creating safer and more attractive routes. Public transport access will be strengthened through existing bus stops located around the site, as shown on the accompanying plan.
Construction Traffic
A detailed Construction Management Plan will be prepared to ensure construction activity is carefully controlled. This ensures construction impacts are minimised and managed responsibly. It will include:
- Defined access routes for construction vehicles
- A commitment that no heavy construction traffic will route through local villages
- Use of the concrete access road on Summer Road only via the A143, and only as a secondary construction access
- Closure of this access road to vehicles once construction is complete