Transport body reveals top 17 transformational road schemes for new Government

Sub-national Transport Body Midlands Connect has published a list of 17 road projects it believes to be transformational for the Midlands in a new report entitled ‘Keeping the Midlands moving’.

The projects are recommended for funding as part of the next Road Investment Scheme 3 programme, to be delivered from 2025–2030.

The report lists schemes with the ability to transform regional and UK gateways, improve east-west connectivity and unlock the full economic potential of the region by delivering new jobs and homes.

The cost, impact and benefits of each project has been carefully examined to prioritise the most urgent and beneficial improvements for the region, transforming mobility across the Midlands.

Four of the schemes were originally earmarked for the Road Investment Scheme (RIS) 2, for delivery between 2020 and 2025, but have been delayed. Midlands Connect believes the projects remain of vital importance to the future of the regional and national transport systems.

Thirteen other schemes across the region are proposed for delivery in the next RIS 3 programme, with delivery from 2025 to 2030.

Mike Bull, programme director at Midlands Connect, said: “We never recommend a project for funding unless we believe the benefits outweigh the costs. The 17 road projects mentioned in the report have the ability to cut congestion, help create new jobs and homes, as well as improve safety across the region. They are real ‘no brainers’ for stimulating economic growth during this challenging time.

“We will continue to support National Highways and the relevant Local Authorities in making the case for these much-needed schemes to Government.”

The schemes discussed in the report are listed below:

Delivering RIS 2

•             A38 Derby junctions

•             A46 Coventry junctions

•             A46 Newark bypass

•             M54 to M6 link road

RIS 3 priorities

•             A1/A52 junction improvement

•             A46 improvement at Evesham

•             A46 between Stratford and Warwick

•             A46 improvement at Syston

•             A483 Pant Llanymynech Bypass

•             A5/A426 Gibbet Hill junction

•             A5 Hinckley to Tamworth

•             A50 Central Section

•             Birmingham Motorway Box

•             M1 junction 24

•             M1 junction 28

•             M1 improvements at Leicester

•             M6 junction 15

A copy of the full report can be found HERE.