RESIDENTS have voiced further concerns over the Option 2 Western Bypass route favoured by the Studley By-pass Steering Group.

In opposition, representatives from Winyates Green, Matchborough East, Wirehill and Sambourne recently formed the Studley Easterly Relief Road Action Group (SERRAG) which supports Option 3a (modified.)

The group's main concerns include noise pollution as it is believed homes nearest Option 2 would experience a 10 decibel increase while a 15 decibel increase is expected at the Alexandra Hospital.

Chairman of Winyates Green Residents Association Ian Jarrett said Redditch Council's planning and transportation committee was presented with a report of findings on February 13 following two consultations which took place in January.

He also said: "The figures revealed out of 750 questionnaires completed only 19 favoured Option 2 while 676 preferred an Easterly option. It is also worth noting 83.6 per cent stated they did not want Option 2.

"The 1991 Public Inquiry indicated a 10 decibel increase in noise levels can be expected by homes closest to Option 2, which roughly equates to a doubling of the noise perceived by the ear. The hospital would be harder hit with an expected 15 decibel increase."

For more details, contact SERRAG's website at www.studleybypass.com