PLANS for a new inner relief road through the centre of Hucknall have been approved.
Nottinghamshire County Council's Planning and Licensing Committee gave the proposals the go ahead on Tuesday, Dec 10, which will see the construction of a new road between Annesley Road and Station Road.
The proposal is part of a wider £12 million to regenerate Hucknall town centre by easing congestion on the High Street and pedestrianising part of it.
Hucknall resident Bill Ward, spoke at the meeting to express concerns that the inner relief road will add to the flooding problems faced by residents on Thoresby Dale.
Mr Ward said: "The plans are ok but it is the flooding that is the concern. This road has flooded three times in the last 12 years and it's getting worse. The new inner relief road wouldn't be able to copy with the amount of water when a storm comes. That water will come on to our road then. The road needs its own run off and sewers."
Hucknall County Councillors Alice Grice and John Wilkinson were also present at the meeting and spoke about flooding concerns in the area.
Both councillors recommended that the plans be deferred until next March when the council's flooding survey results for Hucknall are expected to come back.
The new 450m-long road would run parallel to High Street and pass through a number of existing streets.
Some homes would have to be demolished to make way for the road, while a handful of shops in High Street will be affected.
Sherwood MP Mark Spencer said he was "disappointed" that Cllr Grice and Cllr Wilkinson were unable to persuade the committee to defer the plans.
Mr Spencer said: "I am really concerned about the flooding issues, especially for those residents on Thoresby Dale. I am concerned the road might make it worse. I am going to continue to push for improved flood measures."
Hucknall resident Margaret Griffiths, 68, said she was pleased the plans were given the green light.
Ms Griffiths said: "It will be better for the town centre because we get a lot of traffic on High Street."
Another resident, of Park Avenue, said the new inner relief road was a good idea.
The 45-year-old woman, who works in the town centre, said: "I am glad it has been approved. It will get the traffic our of the town centre and if they pedestrianise the town in the future it might encourage more trade and build Hucknall back up again."
