A29 at Pulborough Set for Partial Reopening After Landslip Closure
West Sussex County Council (WSCC) has revealed plans to partially reopen the A29 at Church Hill, Pulborough, shut since December 2022 due to dangerous landslips. A single lane protected by concrete blocks will soon allow traffic to flow through the narrow stretch.
Why the Road’s Been Shut Since Last Year
The landslide hit the tightest part of the A29, squeezed between steep embankments. For safety, the entire road was closed. The tricky part? The land alongside the carriageway needed for repairs isn’t council-owned but private property. WSCC’s had tough talks with the landowners to get permission for critical survey and repair work, but no deal has been struck.
Council Takes Tough Stance as Negotiations Stall
With talks breaking down, WSCC has invoked Section 151 of the Highways Act 1980, ordering landowners to clear fallen debris blocking the road and carry out anti-slip measures on their land to stop future landslides.
Temporary One-Lane Traffic Plan in Motion
WSCC had previously resisted reopening the road with just one lane, holding out for a full two-way fix to avoid further closures and diversions. But with delays mounting and pressure from local residents, the council has chosen a middle ground: a one-lane system is coming in as a temporary fix.
“We offered to carry out the work on private land ourselves to get the road open,” said Matt Davey, WSCC Director of Highways. “We were optimistic about an agreement but, unfortunately, it hasn’t happened yet. We urge landowners to be pragmatic so residents aren’t left waiting any longer.”
