Cumbria’s crucial road links are set to benefit from major investment, delivering safer, faster, and more reliable journeys, an announcement which has been hailed by Trudy Harrison MP.
The announcement was made on today by Transport Secretary Chris Grayling during a visit to Whitehaven with Mrs Harrison.
It comes as Highways England launches a public consultation into the expansion of the A595 around Whitehaven, with construction set to begin in 2025.
Focused on upgrading a pinch-point which causes traffic between Carlisle and Barrow-in-Furness, the consultation will look at ways of cutting congestion, improving safety and reducing rat-running on other local roads.
Transport Secretary Chris Grayling said: “Investing in Cumbria’s vital transport routes cuts congestion, ensures drivers enjoy faster, safer journeys, and increases the freight capacity needed to drive forward jobs and economic growth.
“This shows our cast-iron commitment to Cumbria, as we deliver the investment needed to provide businesses and commuters with more reliable and resilient journeys.”
The Secretary of State also confirmed ongoing discussions with local partners on proposals to progress development of a major programme of upgrades on the Cumbrian Coast rail line to support expected major investments in West Cumbria and the creation of new jobs.
It was also recently announced proposals which could reduce congestion on the A595 at Grizebeck, between Calder Bridge and Barrow. This scheme could benefit from this week’s Budget announcement that an additional £28.8bn will be invested in improving strategically important roads.
The public consultation, launched to cut congestion and improve safety for drivers on the crucial A595 link near Whitehaven will run from Wednesday 7th November to Wednesday 19th December and will include 3 public meetings.
It is part of the Department for Transport’s commitment to investment in the North, spending over £13bn through to 2020.
