THREAT TO RAIL LINK SLAMMED

And that includes current county council plans to put a gyratory road through Uckfield which could split the town in two and rule out any hope of re-opening the seven mile stretch of rail.

Lewes Town Council has expressed 'deep concern' at the plans, which are in the preliminary discussion stage.

Cllr Michael Chartier said: 'We should view with deep concern any changes that would put at risk any re-opening of the line.

'It is in everyone's interests to re-open the line. It can only be of enormous benefit.'

The council has previously gone on record as saying that the re-opened line would be a vital rail link to London, should the Brighton to London line close for any reason.

Council members discussed a letter from Brain Hart, director of the Wealden Line Campaign, which claimed the county was trying to force through a gyratory road scheme for Uckfield as a solution to the town's local hold-ups.

He said: 'This ruinous new road would cut right across the station site, sever the protected track-bed to Lewes, as well as wreck plans to eventually provide a new station '“ essential if the line is ever to carry more trains.

'Have no doubt, this would be a stake through the heart of a regional rail project, benefiting many thousands of people.

'The choice is simple.

'Do you want train services between Lewes and London, or a gyratory road in Uckfield?

'East Sussex deserves better.'

Lewes Town Council members agreed and instructed town clerk Steve Brigden is to write to East Sussex County Council.