MPs in bid to get A11 dualled
Norfolk and Suffolk MPs have begun lobbying for the A11 dualling to be top of the new coalition government's agenda.
Norfolk and Suffolk MPs have begun lobbying for the A11 dualling to be top of the new coalition government's agenda.
With plans for a major cut in the road-building programme in favour of reducing rail fares announced by ministers, South West Norfolk MP Elizabeth Truss and West Suffolk MP Matthew Hancock met Department of Transport civil servants to make the case for completing the road.
The last nine-mile stretch of road between Thetford and the Fiveways roundabout at Barton Mills has been the blight of motorists, businesses and commuters for many years.
Ms Truss, who committed herself earlier this month to lobby for the dualling of the A11, said: 'We have made an early start to making sure dualling the A11 is top of the Department for Transport's list of priorities.
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'We are determined to fight for this to happen. This is a vital project for the economy and future growth of Norfolk and in particular would bring new jobs and growth to Thetford.'
A public inquiry into the dualling proposals ended in January and a report from planning inspector Neil Taylor is due any time. A final decision will then be made by Transport Secretary Philip Hammond.
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Mr Hancock said it was time the wait was over and said: 'The people of West Suffolk have had to put up with terrible traffic conditions and dangerous road safety along the short nine-mile stretch of the A11 for many years.
'We all know the budget will be tight thanks to the economic mess left by Labour, but our goal is to ensure the dualling is at the top of the queue for whatever budget there is for the Department of Transport.'
Mr Hancock said the MPs were planning to take the matter to the ministers arguing the importance of the scheme.
