North West’s transport schemes receive £75m boost

MAJOR transport schemes in the North West are to receive a £75m funding boost from the government.

Finance has been provided to complete a £20.4m scheme to help regenerate Liverpool by widening Edge Lane which will improve  links to the city centre from the M62.

Additionally, an £18.6m project to help secure the future of the Silver Jubilee Bridge at Runcorn will also now take place.

Crewe will also benefit from a £36m link road to cut congestion and boost the town’s regeneration.

Transport secretary Andrew Adonis said: “The government is committed to investing in key transport links, particularly those which help boost economic growth.

“That is why we are providing funding to allow Liverpool City Council to widen Edge Lane, a key east-west highway into the city from the M62 which connects Merseyside to Cheshire and Greater Manchester.

“Relieving congestion at this major bottleneck will cut journey times and attract visitors and investment to Liverpool.

“It will also allow for improved public transport as well as improving safety for motorists, pedestrians and cyclists and unlocking the potential of key development sites in the area.

“I am also delighted to announce further significant funding for maintenance works on Runcorn’s Silver Jubilee Bridge.

“The upgrade will bring long-term benefits for all those travelling in the area, whether for business or leisure.
 
“The Crewe Green Link Road South will provide a link between areas of deprivation to the north of Crewe and employment opportunities to the south east of the town.

“This will support sustainable economic growth and help ensure the town has the infrastructure needed as a key regional transport gateway. ” 

Steven Broomhead, the NWDA’s chief executive, also welcomed the investment as a “major step forward”.

He said: “Today’s announcement demonstrates a strong commitment by government to prioritise these vital transport programmes.

“It’s clear that economic growth relies upon having the right transport infrastructure in place.

“Without major prioritisation, the outlook can only be for growing congestion on the region’s road networks.

“This announcement is not only a major step forward in helping to tackle this issue, but will also go a long way in unlocking the potential of key development sites in these areas.

“The NWDA will now continue to work closely with government to ensure these schemes are progressed.”