Stonehenge tunnel plan officially scrapped after years of protests

March 18, 2026

TL;DR

The Department for Transport has officially cancelled the controversial plan to build a tunnel under Stonehenge.
Campaigners had opposed the tunnel proposal since 1994 due to concerns about its impact on the world heritage site.
The project was approved in 2023 but put on hold in 2024 due to expected cost increases to £1.4bn.
Over £179 million has already been spent on planning and other expenses for the tunnel.
The decision to revoke the development consent order was made under 'exceptional circumstances' as it no longer aligns with current strategic policy objectives.
Campaigners welcomed the cancellation and urged the government to use the saved budget for public transport networks.
Local council members expressed concern about the lack of alternative plans to reduce congestion and 'rat-running' through villages.

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