HUNDREDS of people affected by a new major road near their home hope to claim thousands of pounds' compensation.

The A29 western bypass at Billingshurst was officially opened last month and is used by thousands of vehicles every day.

Residents who claim their homes have been blighted by the development are eligible to apply for compensation from Horsham Council.

The council had the road built in a deal with property developers.

Horsham-based property experts Henry Smith say that as residents do not have to pay for professional advice in these cases, they have nothing to lose.

Rating valuer Eddie Jenkinson said: "Claims relating to physical factors cannot be made for one year after the opening but work starts now on collecting the facts. Then there is a six-year claim period.

"It is not easy for anyone, professional or otherwise, to predict the long term change on a house or a garden adjacent to such a major new construction.

"Physical and environmental factors take into account noise, dust and pollutant levels, vibration and exposure to artificial light."

Mr Jenkinson said he would be working closely with residents, the council and the Valuation Office to assess the effects and agree individual terms.

He said: People can go through a great deal of stress and uncertainty."

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