Woking road closure set to last until mid-January

A town centre road in Surrey is set to remain closed until at least the middle of January due to damage caused by Storm Darragh.

Victoria Way in Woking was shut in both directions on 7 December due to dislodged panels on a hotel development.

Further problems with the exterior cladding on the Hilton hotel mean the road is not safe to open, according to the design and build contractor Sir Robert McAlpine.

Will Forster, MP for Woking, in a public letter addressing the construction company said "the residents and businesses of Woking deserve better" and urged the company to "show accountability and take meaningful action".

A spokesperson for Sir Robert McAlpine assured residents they were "committed to working through the Holiday period and during weekends".

Mr Forster has asked the construction company for "a clear timeline for when the safety works will be completed" and "confirmation of whether compensation will be provided to local businesses".

A spokesperson from the Hilton told the BBC that the hotel remains open and that guests should enter via the dedicated car park entrance.

"The safety and well-being of our guests and team members is our top priority", the spokesperson added.

"While public safety is paramount, it is hugely disappointing news for Woking", said Councillor Ann-Marie Barker, leader of Woking Borough Council.

Ms Barker said she recognised the inconvenience and delays this prolonged closure will cause to residents, businesses and visitors.

The road was previously closed on 25 November following Storm Bert, due to concerns over loose cladding.

In October 2021, cladding panels fell off the Hilton hotel in the town, leading to months of road closures while repairs were made.

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