Delayed M25/A3 Roadworks | Guildford MP Zöe Franklin tables Parliamentary amendment as multi-million pound losses for local businesses and RHS Wisley “highlight a major flaw” in current legislation

Speaking in the House of Commons, Ms Franklin told MPs that the roadworks due to finish this summer were now not expected to be completed until Spring 2026, meaning four years of disruption to residents and businesses.

Zöe Franklin MP said: “Current legislation doesn’t compensate for loss of business during long running and large-scale infrastructure projects.

“There have been huge consequences for RHS Wisley, the UK’s leading gardening charity. It not only is facing the financial loss of 350,000 fewer visitors a year, but also it has delayed plans for new arboretums, reduced funding for scientific research, scaled back community outreach projects and cut training opportunities for students.

“RHS Wisley’s petition for compensation has 93,000 signatures. I was pleased to add my name, and I encourage constituents to show their support.  

The petition can be found here.

Ms Franklin continued: “The owner of the very popular local café Ockham Bites has spoken of the financial and emotional impact the project is having on him and his business. He estimates road closures and traffic disruption is costing him £600 every day in lost trade.

“On two different scales, these two examples highlight a major flaw in the current legislation. Local charities and businesses need and deserve support for financial losses caused through no fault of their own, but by major infrastructure projects.

“I met the Transport Minister to discuss this and was frustrated by her unwillingness to find a solution to the financial hole the M25 works have caused Wisley and Ockham Bites.”

Zöe Franklin MP has tabled an amendment to the Planning and Infrastructure Bill calling for financial compensation to charities and small businesses affected by road closures and roadworks lasting six months or more. 

The amendment would require the Government to provide financial support or equivalent assistance to small businesses and charities that suffer significant disruption or financial loss due to roadworks or closures lasting six months or more. Where road or building works cause extended disruption, the Secretary of State would be required to ensure that affected organisations can access compensation or support to help them recover or mitigate the detriment suffered.