Businesses in Stoke-on-Trent and Staffordshire are being urged to back a call for investment in the A50/A500 corridor – a vital transport route plagued by congestion and delays that are ‘throttling growth and stifling opportunity’.
Jacob Collier, MP for Burton and Uttoxeter, is calling on the Government to prioritise funding for these much-needed improvements in the Road Investment Strategy (RIS3) and has launched a survey to gather support.
He is also coordinating an open letter to the Chancellor of the Exchequer, Rachel Reeves MP, and respondents can opt in to add their signature as part of the survey.
The campaign underscores a recent report by sub-regional transport body Midlands Connect, based on insights from senior figures at Toyota, Yusen Logistics, the Federation of Small Businesses, Overclockers UK, Indurent and bet365.
Research conducted by Cavendish on behalf of Midlands Connect, gathered the thoughts of business leaders, which fell under four main themes: delays caused by congestion on the existing road network; strategies being implemented to mitigate the impact of congestion; increased business efficiency and investment in the area if the road network was upgraded; and the potential to capitalise on the logistics market if the corridor was improved.
Jacob hopes that businesses, universities and local authorities will lend their support.
He said: “The A50/A500 is the Midlands’ economic backbone, connecting Stoke-on-Trent to Nottingham and powering the livelihoods of over a million residents and half a million jobs.
“It’s a route relied upon by giants like JCB, Toyota and Rolls-Royce, but just as crucially, it supports countless small businesses that form the beating heart of our local economy. Yet, persistent congestion and unreliable journeys are throttling growth and stifling opportunity.
“From manufacturing titans to small firms striving to expand, businesses are paying the price – 37 minutes lost per weekday, peak speeds plummeting to 14mph, and spiralling costs for logistics, supply chains, and everyday trade.
“The potential here is vast: 39,000 new jobs, 67,000 homes, and a thriving hub for green transport technology. But without decisive action, these opportunities will remain out of reach. The A50/A500 must become a true catalyst for growth, innovation, and sustainability – the time to act is now.”
Staffordshire Chambers of Commerce is supporting the petition and urges businesses in Stoke-on-Trent and Staffordshire to put their names to it.
Policy Adviser Declan Riddell said: “We’re asking local businesses to lend their support for greater investment in the A50/A500 corridor.
“The A50/A500 plays such a pivotal role in keeping people and goods moving across our region. Much needed investment will help to tackle congestion and unleash the future economic growth of the A50/A500 corridor.”
