THE entire stretch of the A27 in West Sussex should be dualled and treated as one project, says an influential business partnership.

Proposals to upgrade six junctions in Lancing and Worthing currently out for consultation do not go far enough, said the Coastal West Sussex Partnership.

The partnership said the proposals cost too much for the little benefit they would bring.

The partnership is a business-led body formed to develop the region with a central mission to ensure the area is well connected to support sustainable economic growth.

It insisted Highways England’s piecemeal approach to the A27 was working against a viable long term solution to the crucial road link.

Geoff Edwards, chairman of the partnership said: “The option currently being proposed doesn’t go far enough and more long-lasting and innovative solutions should be sought.

“The few benefits through this scheme appear disproportionate to the proposed costs and the disruption during the works could have a bigger cost to business.

“We encourage Highways England to take a more holistic and innovative approach.”