A date has now been set for the hearing of the challenge to the Mottram Bypass and Glossop Spur Road project.
The court hearing, made necessary by a late and spurious legal challenge by anti-road CPRE campaigners will take place on 3 October and will determine whether or not the project will go ahead.
Local residents, along with High Peak MP Robert Largan, have welcomed the setting of the date, which now puts in place a timeline for a decision to be made.
Construction was due to commence in March on the bypass after the historic decision of the Secretary of State to approve the project, but following the group launching the legal challenge construction had to be suspended.
Studies show that the Mottram Bypass & Glossop Spur will reduce congestion, improve air quality, and reduce journey times.
The project is fundamental to the future commissioning of the second phase of the bypass around Hollingworth and Tintwistle too.
Mr Largan has supported the project, which also enjoys overwhelming local support, despite efforts from Labour to block it.
The Member of Parliament for High Peak also criticised the cost of the challenge to the taxpayer.
Robert Largan, MP for High Peak, commented:
“The Government approving the Mottram Bypass, following my long-standing efforts, was a momentous and historic decision for the High Peak. Residents have waited over 50 years to see this happen.
“Unfortunately, Glossop Labour Party put politics before people and have done all they can to block the bypass.
“They have submitted formal objections, passed a formal motion to “campaign vigorously” against it and have even tried to donate to the legal challenge to block it. They then, bizarrely, tried to say they supported it.
“Labour have been utterly dishonest and should be ashamed. We must not let them succeed. Whilst Labour play silly political games, I’ll continue to campaign to build the bypass and secure the second phase around Hollingworth and Tintwistle too.
“I am confident that this spurious legal challenge will be rejected and we can get on and build the bypass as soon as possible!”
Residents can support Mr Largan’s campaign by adding their name to his petition, online at www.robertlargan.co.uk/buildthebypass.
