Policy experts from a leading transport think tank want business input to banish age-old traffic nightmares in North Staffordshire and drive economic growth.
Midlands Connect is staging a major consultation event in Stoke-on-Trent next month, and it’s a fair bet the A50 and A500 will be on the agenda.
Bothg major routes through the city have their pinch points, maintenance issues and a few potholes. Add a breakdown on the M6 into the pot and you’ve a recipe for traffic meltdown which costs business millions every year.
Next month’s half day event – free to attend, on Friday, June 13, at the DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel on Festival Park, from 10:30am to 2:30pm – is part of the City Transport Summit Series.
MPs, council representatives, businesses and community leaders will discuss how improvements to local and regional transport links can unlock investment, boost economic opportunities and improve access to jobs and services.
The summit will explore the transport improvements that could benefit local businesses and communities, as well as the challenges and opportunities around delivering zero-emission and housing infrastructure.
Attendees will enjoy keynote speeches and panel discussions, with opportunities for interactive debate and questions from the audience.
A spokesperson for Midlands Connect said: “Stoke-on-Trent and the wider Staffordshire region are home to a diverse and growing economy. With its strategic location, the area has significant potential to drive regional growth and support wider economic growth.
“However, unlocking this potential depends on improving local and regional transport links to support business growth, create investment, and improve access to jobs and services.”
Refreshments will be provided throughout the day, with lunch provided. Free tickets are available to book now.
• Midlands Connect researches, develops and progresses transport projects which will provide the biggest possible environmental, economic and social benefits for the Midlands and the rest of the UK.
Its evidence base is then used to prioritise the most urgent and beneficial improvements, working alongside partners and Government to secure funding for development and implementation.
It aims to transform regional and UK gateways and priorities include bringing accelerating cost-effective improvements to unlock east-west connectivity.
