Ministers back Norwich northern bypass scheme

Shaun LowthorpeMinisters have confirmed their support for the Norwich northern bypass scheme - though work on the first phase around may not start until October if campaigners succeed in securing a public inquiry.Shaun Lowthorpe

Ministers have confirmed their support for the Norwich northern bypass scheme - though work on the first phase around may not start until October if campaigners succeed in securing a public inquiry.

The Department for Transport (DfT) issued a formal decision letter confirming an announcement last year that it was earmarking �67.5m for construction of the road from the A47 at Postwick to the A140 at Norwich International airport.

County Hall was hoping to start the first phase of the scheme, which would see the reworking of the Postwick junction linked to the expansion of the Broadland Business Park and the doubling of the park-and-ride site, in the coming weeks.

But the start date could hinge on whether objectors succeed in securing a public inquiry over the Postwick hub decision and the granting of orders to carry out work on the side roads.

Adrian Gunson, cabinet member for planning and transportation, said he was pleased the government had recognised the essential role of the road in solving a whole range of problems.