Roads Upgrade 'Critical'

2 December 2014, 12:22 | Updated: 30 March 2016, 13:50

The East Midlands Chamber of Commerce has told Capital that improvements to the transport network in our region are critical to the area's future economic growth.

The government's spending £1.4b here, dualling the A46 Newark Bypass, updating junctions on the A38 in Derby and building a new expressway from North Derbyshire to the West Midlands.

Smart Motorway

Junctions on the M1 at Nottingham, Derby and Leicester will also get upgraded in the plans, as well turning the entire road into a 'smart' motorway.

Chris Hobson, from the Chamber of Commerce for Derbyshire, Nottinghamshire and Leicestershire:

'Many people who use the M1 will understand the pinch points at junctions with the three major cities and the need to alleviate congestion at peak times.

'However, there is a clear need for cohesive planning alongside other major works, such as the strategic freight interchange at East Midlands Airport and the proposed East Midlands HS2 hub, to ensure that the region enjoys the full economic benefits these schemes will bring.'

Improved Economy for North Derbyshire

MP for the High Peak, Andrew Bingham, has told capitalfm.com the new link road in North Derbyshire will improve the area's economy.

£170m will be spent building the expressway from Glossop to Mottram.

MP Andrew Bingham