St George’s Fields Estate in Wootton (NN4)

expressing my concerns about the planned six-week road closure situated directly outside the  estate (Newport Pagnell Road)

The proposed diversion, which extends journeys by around 13 miles in each direction, will have a considerable impact on everyday life for those living here with no alternative. The timing is especially problematic, as it overlaps with the GCSE and A-Level exam period, placing additional and unnecessary pressure on students during an already demanding time.

The effect on many households is significant, particularly in relation to school travel. Each day for many involves three separate school runs, including midday collections. With the diversion in place, every trip will be significantly lengthened. 

Financially, this creates a noticeable burden, with fuel costs alone increasing by around £100 per week, totalling approximately £600 across the full closure period. Beyond the cost, the extended travel time is already beginning to interfere with work commitments and may ultimately require adjustments to residents employment. It will also disrupt family’s routines, forcing earlier starts that could negatively affect students during their crucial exams.

Although alternative routes technically exist, they are not realistically suitable. Many involve narrow single-track roads in poor condition, with significant potholes making them unreliable and potentially unsafe. 

While I understand the necessity of carrying out work to repair a sink hole issue, a complete closure of this length feels excessive given the scale of disruption it will cause. I would urge you to work with the council and Kier to consider more flexible solutions, such as phased construction or the use of temporary traffic signals, allowing at least some level of access to remain. 

This situation is impacting numerous households within the estate, and I believe it deserves urgent reconsideration.

I would be very grateful for your assistance in raising these concerns with the appropriate authorities and advocating for a more practical approach.