Updated: 21 June, 2005
© RESCUE

Friday 4^th October no226/02

NATIONAL TRUST backs CALLS FOR A
LONGER BORED TUNNEL FOR STONEHENGE

The Council of the National Trust today (Thursday) took a decision expressing a preference for a long bored tunnel as the best way to rid Stonehenge of the intrusion of traffic.

Charles Nunneley, the Chairman, commented:

"On archaeological and landscape grounds we would prefer a 4.5km tunnel. But we need to know more about whether this can be built and its impacts on the environment. The current situation has rightly been termed a 'national disgrace'. Our objective is the longest tunnel achievable that protects and enhances the integrity of Stonehenge and its setting."

The Trust's Council is now urging the Government to undertake further analysis of the 4.5km tunnel option to examine its feasibility and environmental impact.

The National Trust opposes the cut and cover tunnel currently proposed by the Government at Stonehenge due to the irreversible damage to archaeological sites, some of which are scheduled ancient monuments, and the permanent changes to the landscape in sight of the Stones that would result.

Charles Nunneley said:

"This is a once in a lifetime opportunity to free Stonehenge of the damaging impacts of roads. This world class site deserves a world class solution and we urge the Government to remove the sight, sound and smell of traffic from the amphitheatre of Stonehenge and its landscape."

The Trust, which owns the land around the monument and protects it inalienably on behalf of the nation, is working closely with English Heritage, the Highways Agency and other interested parties to develop plans to improve the Stonehenge World Heritage Site and improve visitor access and facilities.

The construction of a tunnel along part of the present route of the A303 to remove the road as far as possible from the World Heritage Site is an essential part of the plan and agreed in principle by all parties. The choice of construction method, the length of the tunnel and the precise entry and exit points have yet to be decided and are being considered imminently by the Government. A Public Inquiry is expected in late 2003.

A briefing note is attached.

Further press information:

Sian Evans on 020 7447 6533/6755 or Jason Tanner on 020 7447 6756 or 07887 826988 or Patrick Begg 07785 290460