Is HH scapegoat?

SIR – We note Herts Highways failure to challenge more highways issues on the rail freight terminal and that they cannot comment on other agency s highway issues. However, Conservative councillors have repeatedly asked LibDem-controlled SADC whether Hert

SIR - We note Herts Highways' failure to challenge more highways issues on the rail freight terminal and that they cannot comment on other agency's highway issues.

However, Conservative councillors have repeatedly asked LibDem-controlled SADC whether Herts Highways' brief includes commenting on any highway issue outside the roads directly under their control.

For example not on private road design, e.g. on the Wheathampsted School housing development, or on Highways Agency roads, e.g. on the rail freight or other highway issues including parking.

All planning meetings receive from Herts Highways is a 'no comment' that could either mean outside their brief or no adverse comment.

The developer/planning inspector assuming the latter.

While not a fan of Herts Highways, if SADC does not ensure and pay if necessary for a full highways consultancy service it may not be HH's fault and for a halfpenny of tar the ship could be lost. It may give LD SADC a convenient scapegoat but with serious avoidable consequences for residents.

MIKE WAKELY

Opposition District Councillor

Oakfield Road, Harpenden