Letter: Another Reminder About The Plans For Guildford Back in 1946

Published on: 3 Sep, 2015
Updated on: 3 Sep, 2015

It was over 70 years ago as the Second World War was drawing to a close that the Jellico Report was prepared for a ‘Guildford of the future’.

This report was submitted to the borough council two years later in 1946.

The old way of reading about plans for Guildford’s future – a local newspaper report from 1946!

At that time there was very little thought for our historical past and its preservation as there is today, but it was said that we go forward into a time of hope and peace with the creation of a modern city from a tired old town.

The Jellico Report talked of helipads and even an atomic power station. However, there were signs of the same problems from which we are suffering today.

Future traffic congestion was one of those problems. It was felt to be a blight on the quality of life of Guildfordians.

The report suggested a new bypass (A3) which would circumnavigate the town while the existing A3 would be reduced to a mere local road.

It was even suggested that that a tunnel be built under the Hog’s Back to relief the curse of through traffic. A problem greatly effecting us today.

There was little thought given to our heritage which was probably understandable after the rigours of the war years.

However, consideration was given to the museum in its present location.

It was suggested that the Royal Grammar School should be relocated to Stoke Park and the buildings become a new home for the museum.

I sincerely hope that we have learned from the lessons of the past seven decades and and that we do not make similar errors.

[Ed: The Guildford Dragon NEWS published a retrospective story about the 1946 Jellico Report in December 2013. Click here to view]

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