ENVIRONMENTALISTS have hit out over recent transport plans earmarked for the borough and South Cheshire.

While Sandbach business leaders have welcomed the multi-million pound scheme to widen the M6 to ten lanes in our area, South Cheshire Friends of the Earth have voiced their concerns over Government proposals.

Campaigner Dave Kruger said: "The M6 widening is the outcome of the decision to go ahead with the Birmingham Northern Relief Road.

"It is clear that once it opens the M6 north of Cannock will be jammed for much of the day.

"South Cheshire is all set to attract even more out-of-town sprawl. These urban developments generate unnecessary traffic, as they are invariably badly served by public transport.

"Do we really want to use land in a small, crowded country for American-style freeways, Westwood Parks and golf courses?"

Sandbach Chamber of Trade and Commerce chairman Ken Beresford felt the M6 scheme was essential.

"It's a very good thing with all the problems over the last few years with accidents and congestion. It should have been widened 10 years ago when the idea was first brought up and the sooner it is, the better."

Public transport has also been called into question.

"It's a terrible reflection on the way our railways are run that later this year Virgin Trains are going to have high speed titling trains but the track is not going to be in a fit state for them to run at their designed speed.

"Crewe bus station is to be redeveloped and not before time. But is it really asking for the moon to suggest Crewe Railway Station should be served by a decent range of local bus services?"

WHAT do you think about the M6 widening scheme or public transport? Write to the Editor, Crewe and Nantwich Guardian's, 42 High Street, Crewe, CW2 7BN, or alternatively email trobinson@guardiangrp.co.uk