Council May Compulsorily Purchase Land for £81m Roundabout Scheme

Chelmsford could see big changes to ease traffic. Essex County Council plans an £81 million upgrade. This focuses on the Army and Navy Roundabout. They might need to buy land around the roundabout, and some owners might not want to sell. Aldi and park and ride sites are included.

This could delay the project and increase costs. A public inquiry could even happen. The project includes a “hamburger” roundabout, adding a road through the center of the existing one. This connects key roads to reduce congestion. Park and ride sites will gain spaces.

Sandon Park and Ride will add 380 spaces, and will rebuild the terminal and substation. Chelmer Valley Park and Ride will gain many spaces. It will grow from 500 to over 1,500 spaces, adding 94 electric vehicle spaces.

The council started talking with landowners, hoping to reach agreements. But some talks might fail. If no deal occurs, the council will make orders. These orders force owners to sell, but this is only for plots where talks fail.

Objections to these orders could trigger a public inquiry. The council hired a firm to negotiate, wanting to avoid compulsory purchases. A public inquiry would waste time and money. It could also delay construction.

The council will wait until they secure land, and also seek final funding approval. Then, they will award construction contracts. They want contractors to stay committed, which should encourage competition.