Calls for link road cash (From Worcester News)

Calls for link road cash

7:40pm Thursday 17th January 2013 in News By Tom Edwards

CALLS are being made for MPs to launch a campaign over funding for a northern link road in Worcester.

Councillor Richard Udall, who represents St John’s, says drivers are becoming increasingly frustrated with gridlock in the city.

He also says that despite Worcestershire County Council’s efforts, not enough is being done to ensure the Government knows the importance of the scheme.

The idea has been talked about for 30 years. In 2010 County Hall revealed two possible routes were being looked at. The road, which would link Dines Green to Barbourne, is likely to cost at least £100 million and has been discounted in the past amid concerns it would turn Worcester into a commuter city.

Coun Udall said as more congestion is piling onto the A4440 and A449, it should be looked at as a solution to the tailbacks. He said: “Essentially, what a northern link road would do is link St John’s to the Ombersley area, which would make a major difference to congestion. I’ve been saying for some time that the southern link road is at capacity, and no amount of tinkering with traffic islands will do.

“We can all see what is happening in areas such as Bromyard Road, there has to be a new look at this. My frustration is this – if we are to get any Government funding we need to ask for it.”

Coun Udall will put forward a motion at a meeting of the county council today, calling upon the council to reconfirm its long-term commitment to a northern link road.

Under proposals revealed in 2010, a northern link road would run from the A449 Claines roundabout to the A44 Crown East roundabout.

Worcester MP Robin Wal-ker said: “I think it would be a red herring to go down this route – the costs would be enormous.

“MPs should campaign for more transport funding, but improvements to the southern link road would be simpler.”