Fareham’s Bus Rapid Transport (BRT)

plans are now back underway following the Supreme Court overruling an

environmental campaign against the proposed route.  The route, only to be used by buses, cyclists

and service vehicles, will make use of the disused railway line that runs from Fareham

to Gosport.

Gosport resident Viv Morge lives

along the route and has tirelessly campaigned against the scheme going ahead

due to it being home to certain protected species of wildlife.  The Supreme Court hearing in November was

Viv’s ‘last chance saloon’ but the campaign was dealt a blow when the appeal

was dismissed last week. 

Civil engineers BAM Nuttall has stated it will protect and

relocate some of the wildlife in accordance with recommendations made by Natural

England – an independent public body whose aim is to protect and improve the

natural environment of England.

The scheme is set to recommence on Wych Lane, Gosport, in March

of this year in order to remove the existing railway track.  This will cause diversions and Hampshire

County Council has promised to make those details widely available nearer the

time.  With a bit of luck and no more

legal battles, the council hopes works will be completed before the end of the

year – shortly before the new Tesco opens.