IT IS with deep dismay that I learn of proposals by the Ministry of Defence to open Burma Road at the rear of RAF Burtonwood and have it used as a means of egress for heavy goods vehicles leaving the site.

Burma Road leads on to Malvern Close which is a residential cul-de-sac and as such was never intended to accommodate HGVs.

Malvern Close is in constant use by pedestrians and cyclists, many of whom are young children, who attend Great Sankey High School and visit the nearby parkland at Whittle Hall. There are also the occasional horse riders who cross the end of Burma Road.

Malvern Close is the only means of vehicular access to what is now a large housing estate.

Taking these points into consideration, I fear that before long there may be a dreadful accident should Burma Road be opened to HGV traffic.

Burma Road itself is in a poor state of repair and is overgrown on its verges. The road was never metalled to the same standard as a council adopted roadway, has little or no camber and no drainage.

If Burma Road is to be used, it will be both dirty and noisy and would cause severe vibrations which would badly affect the properties which run alongside it. The Ministry has indicated that if Warrington Borough Council does not concur with their proposal, they will not proceed with it. It is in this light that I sincerely hope that the council will refuse permission for the road to be opened and keep the area safe and pleasant.

TONY HARRIS

Leamington Close

Great Sankey

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