Reeves Abandons Stonehenge Tunnel Proposal
The controversial plans to construct the Stonehenge tunnel have been abandoned, announced Chancellor Rachel Reeves, as part of the government’s efforts to reduce public spending.
Reeves informed Parliament on Monday that the previously approved tunnel project bypassing Stonehenge would not proceed due to a £1.6 billion overspend in the transport budget by the previous administration.
This decision was made following a review of projects initiated in response to unfunded commitments of £1 billion to transport schemes for the upcoming year.
Projects like the A303 dual carriageway tunnel at the world heritage site surrounding Stonehenge and the A27 Arundel bypass will now not be pursued, as confirmed by Chancellor Reeves. Additionally, the “Restoring our Railways scheme” has been halted to save an extra £85 million, with a promise to review the previous government’s pledge to establish 40 new hospitals by 2030.
Reeves also announced that her first budget will be unveiled on Oct. 30 and will involve tough decisions regarding welfare, spending, and tax.
“If we cannot afford it, we cannot do it,” reiterated the Chancellor.
Transport Secretary Louise Haigh will lead a thorough review of these transport commitments, encompassing projects ranging from roads to rail, as detailed by Ms. Reeves in her inaugural speech as Chancellor.
The government deemed the road projects as “low value, unaffordable commitments,” estimated to cost taxpayers £587 million in 2025.
The Stonehenge tunnel was approved in 2023 by the Department for Transport to construct a two-mile tunnel on the A303 to avoid the Stonehenge monument in Wiltshire.
The cancellation of the tunnel project was welcomed by the Stonehenge Alliance, citing concerns about the project’s cost, impact on the landscape, and value for money.
Similarly, Wiltshire Council leader Richard Clewer expressed disappointment at the government’s decision to cancel the A303 Stonehenge tunnel project, citing wasted resources and continued challenges for the local community and road users.
RAC policy head Simon Williams raised questions about the government’s road improvement plans following these budget cuts, expressing concerns about the long-term maintenance of local roads without clear funding commitments.
Contributions from PA Media were incorporated into this report.
