A GROUP dedicated to getting the A27 improved between Lewes and Polegate has held its first meeting.

The meeting, chaired by Kemptown and Peacehaven MP Simon Kirby, agreed that an offline dual carriageway between Lewes and Polegate would be the best way to improve journey times, reliability and safety.

The group also recognised the economic benefits for employment space and housing that an improved A27 would bring.

The reference group was formed to make the case for this part of the A27 while the Highways Agency and the Department for Transport undertake a study looking at various options for improving the road.

Mr Kirby said “The A27 is the transport backbone for East Sussex and for too long we have been left with little more than a country lane to deal with over 25,000 vehicles a day. It is unreliable and people consistently rat run through unsuitable roads to avoid the jams.

“I am pleased to be able to bring together this group to ensure this section of the A27 is at the top of the Government’s agenda for improvement. By improving the A27 I hope that the traffic situation on other roads in my constituency, notably the A259 South Coast Road, can also be improved.”

The group agreed to ensure the government understands how important improvements on the road are and all members except Councillor Rosalyn Pierre agreed the need for a duel carriageway.

Mr Kirby is also asking for a meeting with George Osborne, chancellor of the exchequer.