MORE than 400 people have signed a petition objecting to the closure of the A344 near Shrewton.

The proposed closure is part of a scheme of road improvements which it is hoped will improve the setting of Stonehenge.

Cllr Ian West has presented the petition to the inspector who has conducted a public inquiry into the plan to block off the A344 from Stonehenge to its junction with the A303 and will also be carrying out next month’s inquiry into shutting the stretch between Airman’s Corner and the monument.

People in Shrewton say the road should not be closed unless the A303 between Stonehenge and Berwick Down is made into a dual carriageway. Dualling does not form part of the current scheme, backed by the government and English Heritage.

Residents fear extra traffic will be diverted onto unsuitable roads such as Shrewton’s High Street, putting pedestrians at risk.

Cllr West said: “Local people are excited about the new plans for Stonehenge; it’s a great tourist attraction, and a national treasure that needs to be preserved.

“However, I believe the hastily drawn up plans for the closure of the A344 will redirect traffic through roads that are too narrow and residential to handle the increased flow.

“This petition calls on the planning inspector to reject the scheme until it comes alongside improvements to the A303.”