Hugh Sandeman
Conservative Councillor for Bell Hill ward, Petersfield

I continue to be amazed at the efforts by some environmental groups to hamper the reopening of Stoner Hill. In this week's Herald, the good news of the repair work being due to start imminently was reported.

The road is a key route to Petersfield's satellite villages as well as a great route to Alton, Ropley, Four Marks, as well as the A31/A32. To label the route as a rat run is ridiculous, it is a country road just like many others crossing the countryside around this area of Hampshire.

Since the closure of the road due to the landslip many more journeys are being forced through Selbourne, a village which already suffers from excessive amounts of traffic travelling from the A3 to Alton. As well as through Froxfield via the A272, I doubt either of these increases are particularly environmentally friendly at each of those locations.

The Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty was I believe designated in this area on the 26th September 1962, well after the road up Stoner Hill existed. The road allows many people access through the heart of this beautiful countryside and offers a lifeline to local business, and easy access to Petersfield from those who live in and around Froxfield.

I cannot wait to be able to use this route again as it offers the shortest and quickest way to Alton, and any reduction in miles travelled is clearly only going to benefit the environment. Lets get it repaired soon!