New traffic proposals around Stonehenge have been criticised by the National Trust and archaeology groups. © English Heritage

New government proposals for reducing traffic congestion around Stonehenge have been criticised by archaeological groups and the National Trust.

The proposals were outlined on January 23 2006 after the cost of a previous scheme to create a 2.1 kilometre tunnel soared to £510 million.

The new plans include a scheme that would install new roads either to the north or south of the site, a ‘cut and cover’ tunnel past Stonehenge or an option featuring the closure of the nearby A344 and construction of the Winterbourne Stoke Bypass.

But the National Trust, which manages the land around the site, has responded with fierce criticism of the new plans.

The A303 (left) and A344 (right) sees high levels of traffic congestion and the junction is an accident blackspot.

“The government has failed one of the world’s most famous landscapes,” read a statement released on January 23 2006. “These schemes will not return the world famous stones to the tranquillity they deserve and threaten to damage valuable archaeology.”

“The government has failed both to undertake a detailed review of the options and to consult environmental and heritage organisations at a stage of the process which would afford a real opportunity to input into this review.”

Stonehenge became a World Heritage Site in 1986 and solutions to the problem of heavy traffic on surrounding roads have been sought since 1991.

Following a Public Enquiry in 2004, the Inspector recommended a new dual carriageway should be built along with the 2.1 kilometre-long bored tunnel, however the rising costs prompted Ministers to request a review to identify lower cost options.

A 2.1 kilometre bored tunnel was proposed but project costs have risen sharply, prompting the new proposals.

A public consultation period for the latest proposals will run until April 24 2006 and the National Trust has called on the government to use this time to consider alternatives to the options it has outlined.

In a separate statement the Council for British Archaeology (CBA), Wiltshire Archaeological and Natural History Society (WANHS) and the International Council on Monuments and Sites (ICOMOS) supported the National Trust’s views:

“ICOMOS-UK, the CBA and the WANHS consider that the review options now being offered amount to a token consultation lacking a long-term vision that respects the international significance of Stonehenge as a world heritage site,” it said.

“We urge the review group to consider other preferable options that would better reflect the status and value of the overall Stonehenge landscape.”

Stonehenge was made a World Heritage Site in 1986 and solutions to nearby traffic problems have been sought since 1991. © English Heritage

Also quick to respond to the proposals were the RSPB who raised concerns that new roads could destroy nesting and roosting sites of the rare stone curlew and harm prospects of more than 25 other bird species and at least 14 types of butterfly.

Tony Richardson, Director of the RSPB’s South-West Region, said: “A completely new road through the Stonehenge site is unthinkable not only because of its obvious archaeological value but also because of the public outcry it will spark amongst the millions of people who value Britain’s wildlife.”

The government plans to publish a report by early summer 2006 setting out the results of the new consultation period. Prior to that public exhibitions will be held at the White Hart Hotel in Salisbury from February 9-11 and at The Society of Antiquaries, London from February 17-18.

Stephen Ladyman, Minister of State for Transport, said: “I hope that everyone with an interest in this important issue will take the opportunity to contribute to the review process. I am keen to take account of as many views as possible before deciding on an option that will be in keeping with the special requirements of the location as well as being affordable, realistic and deliverable.”