Greggs should offer pastries over traffic chaos - MP

An MP has called for Greggs to offer free pastries to local residents as construction of a new bakery site is blamed for creating traffic disruptions on the A27.

The ongoing construction of the new site at the Esso Rontec Service Station, between Falmer and Lewes, in East Sussex, has been blamed for causing disruption for motorists, especially during peak times.

James MacCleary, Liberal Democrat MP for Lewes, said the works had been "an absolute nightmare for people".

Greggs and Rontec have been approached for comment.

MacCleary said that some constituents had reported hour-long delays, missed exams, cancelled sports fixtures and "serious knock-on effects" in nearby roads.

He criticised the level of disruptions as "completely unjustified".

The MP has called for a full review but added that he felt it was "not enough for people who had already been seriously affected".

"That is why I have written to the chief executive of Greggs, asking them to show some goodwill to local residents," he said.

"At the very least, constituents who have had to sit in this chaos should be entitled to free pastries on opening day."

MacCleary added that while it would be a "small gesture", it would be a "welcome one" for those who had "put up with weeks of disruption".

A National Highways spokesperson said that a lane closure and temporary 50mph speed limit had been introduced while construction was taking place to "protect road workers and those travelling on the A27".

"These measures would remain in place while work continued on the slip roads," they added.

"This may affect journey times, and we advise road users to plan ahead by checking their route before travelling, allowing extra time and avoiding peak travel periods where possible."

The work is expected to end this week.

Follow BBC Sussex on Facebook, on X, and on Instagram. Send your story ideas to southeasttoday@bbc.co.uk or WhatsApp us on 08081 002250.