Regional transport body Midlands Connect and local MPs are pushing for the Government to move forward with investment in a key Staffordshire transport route – so businesses can plan ahead and reap the economic benefits.
Funding for improvement works to the A50/A500 corridor between Stoke and Derby was announced as part of the unveiling of the Network North campaign in October.
It followed the cancellation of the Birmingham to Manchester leg of HS2, which meant billions of pounds was freed up for other local transport schemes.
Midlands Connect has now refreshed its evidence to Government to make the case for the investment and to move forward with this important scheme.
Proposals developed by Midlands Connect would see parts of the road layout reconfigured to improve road safety and ease traffic flow.
Midlands Connect Chief Executive Maria Machancoses said: “This 44-mile long A50/A500 North Midlands Manufacturing Corridor generates an economic output of around £20.3 billion from the areas of Derby, and the Stoke-on-Trent conurbation.
“It is a major through route between the M1 to the East and the M6 to the West. Its economy is dominated by road-reliant industries like manufacturing, automotive, and distribution.
“As such, the A50/A500 is a nationally significant trade and export artery and we are engaging with local and national partners so we can progress with our proposals at pace following the Network North announcement – key to supporting growth along the corridor.”
Midlands Connect met with Burton MP Kate Kniveton, to discuss the plans. She has been campaigning for investment and improvements to the A50 for years.
Kate said: “We have world-renowned businesses along this corridor and they need to be able to plan ahead and know that issues with this critical route will be addressed.
“Improvements are needed to help ease congestion, tackle delays and improve air quality.
“There are a couple of specific roundabouts creating serious pinch points that disrupt traffic flow, but it is also important to look at the whole corridor.
“Improvements will benefit housing development in the wider area, and support jobs and economic growth.”
Midlands Connect is the transport partner of the Midlands Engine, and the Midlands’ Sub-national Transport Body. It researches, develops and champions long-term transport projects which will provide the biggest possible economic, social and environmental benefits for the Midlands and the rest of the UK.
