New poll reveals ‘overwhelming’ support for Junction 28 improvements

Eighty-two percent of residents in Ashfield and Bolsover would support plans to upgrade Junction 28 of the M1, according to new research by Midlands Connect.

The junction in Derbyshire has been blighted by long queues in recent years and concerns have been raised about the level of noise and air pollution generated by rush hour traffic.

Improving the junction would create jobs and give the regional economy a welcome boost, Midlands Connect said.

The new poll indicates that 82 percent of respondents support improvements to the junction while just 6 percent do not.

Over half (51 percent) of respondents said the planned improvements would be “very important” for businesses in South Normanton and Pinxton.

In Ashfield, 89 percent of respondents said improving the junction would be important to residents.

Midlands Connect is currently seeking Government funding for the project.

Swati Mittal, head of roads at Midlands Connect, said: “We believe that this project will create jobs and generate economic benefits for the whole region, at the same time as maintaining our roads for today’s drivers. We will reduce our own carbon emissions, and support government’s ambition to achieve net zero carbon emissions by 2050.”

Councillor Carolyn Renwick, Derbyshire County Council’s cabinet member for infrastructure and environment, added: “Junction 28 is a busy interchange and gateway to and from the M1 for traffic travelling from Alfreton, Derby, Mansfield and Ashfield as well as the immediate surrounding area.

“It also serves the increasingly popular East Midlands Designer outlet and nearby Clover Nook Industrial Estate as well as other key employment zones in Nottinghamshire.

“We wholeheartedly support the bid for Government funding to keep this part of Derbyshire moving by easing congestion to improve journey times for businesses, commuters, residents and visitors alike and cut carbon emissions generated by vehicles caught up in lengthy queues.”