COUNTY transport chiefs say they are disappointed by a Government decision not to fund the second phase of a crucial road scheme for east Kent.

Transport minister Alastair Darling turned down a bid by Kent County Council for £60million to help pay for phase two of the East Kent access road.

The scheme is considered critical in helping improve the economy of the area by making journeys to Thanet and to the rest of the east Kent coast quicker.

It is also important to Pfizers, one of the county’s largest employers and to the continuing commercial development of Manston airport.

Ministers say the scheme is not a high enough priority at this stage but have not ruled out reconsidering it for funding next year.

Kent County Council Cabinet Member for Regeneration Alex King said: “The importance of completing the road network in east Kent is urgent and is of vital importance to the continuing economic recovery of the area, particularly by providing good road access to major employers.”

“It is disappointing the Government feels it cannot give high priority to the scheme’s second phase at this time, but we will continue to press for it to go-ahead as soon as possible in the interests of local businesses and local residents.”

Work is already underway on the first phase from Sandwich to Ebbsfleet Lane.

The decision was bitterly criticised by Thanet North MP Roger Gale. He said: “John Prescott, supported by east Kent Labour MPs, is quite prepared to smother the county in housing but unwilling to find the necessary road infrastructure to meet even existing needs.”