09.04.05: The Vale of Lune meeting, Tuesday 5th April:
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The message was clear at the latest meeting of TSLM (5th April) – people DON’T want the Northern route.
More than 250 people from all over the district, especially those places directly affected by the road such as Torrisholme, Slyne, Skerton and Halton, packed into the Vale of Lune Rugby Club for the second meeting of the campaign group to hear more about the road.
The mood of the meeting was plain. Initial surprise at the sheer size of the project and the destruction it would cause was followed by a resounding NO to the Northern route.
TSLM were amazed by the public response to this issue, the turnout was overwhelming, particularly when people’s minds are on a General Election and the competition that night with European football on the TV!
So far the public have been told very little and it was left to TSLM to enlighten them. People could clearly see that the massive road would destroy our northern Greenbelt and would not be effective in dealing with our true concern -the traffic congestion between Lancaster and Morecambe.
The meeting heard that volunteers had been working hard in 5 groups. Co-ordinators of each group described what they had worked on since the first meeting and their plans for the future:
- Researching the case against the proposed road on environmental and economic grounds
- Contacting other local groups opposed to the road
- Talking to the press
- Telling local residents about the road
- Setting up this website
The co-ordinators were voted onto a committee, along with the chair and treasurer, so the group can raise funds. However, the position of a secretary, able to take minutes of meetings, is currently vacant. Volunteers to take on the post, please contact the group via this site.
The constitution of TSLM was formally agreed and the manifesto was outlined to give the reasons we oppose this road.
- It won’t solve our transport & economic problems
- It will damage our communities and the environment
- There are better and cheaper solutions to the area’s transport problems
During the break, more people came forward and volunteered to work together to oppose the road, and many others asked to be kept in touch. When the meeting resumed, the group’s plans were discussed, together with some of the alternative solutions being developed.
At the conclusion, a member of the audience thanked the group for the work they are doing, words that were greeted with enthusiastic applause. A collection was made at the door for funds to cover costs.
Many thanks to those who attended and to those who contributed to the group’s funds and please continue with your support. Together we can win.