Further to an accident this morning on Bayleys Hill, I am pleased to confirm that National Highways have today agreed to finance the gritting of Bayleys Hill (and will continue to do so until Gracious Lane Bridge reopens), and Sevenoaks District Council have agreed to start the gritting from tonight.
Given the closure of Gracious Lane Bridge, many more cars are currently using Bayleys Hill, despite National Highways (after input from the local parish council and residents) agreeing not to use as part of their diversion route. Unfortunately we have now seen three accidents reported due to the cold and icy weather – the last of which was this morning and fairly serious.
Following previous contact from the parish council and residents, I had already been in touch with National Highways asking for the road to be gritted while the bridge is closed. However, after this morning’s accident, I stressed the need for urgent action.
My thanks to both National Highways and Sevenoaks District Council for reacting so quickly– and also to all the concerned residents who have written to me about the accident today. I do hope those involved in this morning’s accident are safe and well, and hopefully this update will mean no future accidents take place.
