Fifteen detached homes in Derby, purchased by National Highways for more than £6 million as part of a now-scrapped A38 expansion project, have stood empty and boarded up for a decade, leading to anger from former residents who were forced to sell.
The A38 expansion scheme, first proposed 25 years ago, aimed to widen the road and upgrade roundabouts to alleviate traffic congestion. However, the project, which has faced delays due to legal challenges and protests, is now likely to be canceled. The government confirmed earlier this month that the project may be scrapped to fund increased defense spending.
Hundreds of thousands of pounds were also spent on security to prevent vandalism and unauthorized access to the properties on Queensway, which urban explorers have nicknamed 'ghost street.'
Residents who were compelled to sell their homes expressed distress and frustration. John Jerram, 88, and his wife Dorothy, 85, who sold their home of 18 years in 2020, stated it breaks their hearts to see the empty properties. They reported receiving a reduced price for their home with minimal compensation.
Kerry Toolan, 51, recalled being well compensated, with National Highways covering moving costs, legal fees, and stamp duty for their next home. However, she described the situation as a "ridiculous waste of time and money," noting the millions spent on preparation work while they lived there.
Gail Roberts, 67, the last resident to leave the street after a prolonged dispute, called the project a "criminal waste of taxpayers money." She agreed to sell her home in 2023 after viewing 92 other properties, expressing dismay at the state of the empty houses.
The A38 expansion plans faced opposition from environmental groups who argued it would lead to the destruction of woodland and increased carbon emissions. While a revised scheme was approved after an initial legal challenge in 2021, it has now been earmarked for cancellation.
East Midlands Mayor Claire Ward criticized the potential scrapping of the A38 and A46 schemes, stating it was "completely unacceptable" and that the East Midlands region was being disproportionately asked to contribute to savings.
Derby City Council leader Nadine Peatfield acknowledged the divisive nature of the project and stated the need for public consultation given the 25 years since the original proposal and significant societal changes.
Campaign groups, including the Stop The A38 Expansion group and Transport Action Network, welcomed the potential cancellation, citing environmental and economic concerns with the original plans. The Department for Transport has not commented on the future of the houses, stating that consultations will be conducted before any final decisions are made on the road scheme.