Lewes MP calls A27 Greggs delays 'very disappointing'

James MacCleary, Liberal Democrat MP for Lewes, said the roadworks have caused "serious disruption" on the A27 between Lewes and Brighton, with some drivers experiencing delays of up to two hours.

The roadworks began in mid-April to facilitate a new Greggs outlet at the Esso petrol station between Falmer and Lewes.

Lewes MP James MacCleary (Image: The Argus)

Mr MacCleary said: "I am very disappointed by their conduct which has caused serious disruptions for people who use the A27, and many other local roads that have been impacted by displaced traffic.

"I know this disruption has been extremely frustrating for many residents and commuters, particularly on an already busy stretch of the A27, and I will continue monitoring the situation closely.

"Hopefully everything will be back to normal next week."

He said he has been contacted by "a large number of constituents" affected by the congestion and took up the issue with National Highways to seek assurances and push for a resolution.

Following a meeting with National Highways, he was told the works were not being carried out by the agency, but by Rontec Services, who own the garage, and their contractors.

The new Greggs being built at the Esso on the A27 (Image: Eddie Mitchell)

National Highways said they have raised residents’ concerns directly with the contractors.

Mr MacCleary said he was now seeking direct contact with Rontec to escalate complaints and convey the level of public dissatisfaction.

He also said that the original plan for the works was even more disruptive, with Rontec initially proposing nine weeks of daytime-only construction.

After discussions with National Highways, the schedule was changed to extended hours, seven days a week, including the May bank holiday, in an effort to finish the project sooner.

Despite these measures, drivers have faced severe delays. On the day of a major match at the nearby Amex Stadium, a five-minute journey reportedly took some drivers as long as two hours.

The construction of the new Greggs is causing delays (Image: Eddie Mitchell)

National Highways admitted to Mr MacCleary that they "did not predict the level of disruption" that has occurred, though they maintained that responsibility rested with the contractor.

The lane closure and temporary 50mph speed limit are required for safety until the work is complete.

The project stems from planning permission granted by the South Downs National Park Authority in June 2025.

Some residents have questioned whether the scheme’s traffic impact was properly considered, especially given the scale of the resulting congestion.

There may now be some relief in sight, however.

Mr MacCleary confirmed that full overnight closures are scheduled from May 11 to 15 for resurfacing, road lining, and removal of temporary barriers.

Barring weather delays, all traffic management is expected to be lifted on May 15.

A National Highways spokesperson said: “Safety is our top priority. Work is being carried out by a construction company on behalf of a third party and so a lane closure and temporary 50mph speed limit have been introduced at this location to protect road workers and those travelling on the A27.

"These measures will remain in place while work continues on the slip roads and is expected to be completed this week.

“This may affect journey times and we advise road users to plan ahead by checking their route before travelling, allowing extra time and avoiding peak travel periods where possible.”