Stoke roads set for investment after DfT funding injection

STOKE-on-Trent’s highways network is set for improvement after being awarded more than half a million pounds from the Department for Transport.

The £525,000 cash injection will help to improve some of the city’s key commuter routes.

The local authority said revitalising busy roads would help to boost job creation by attracting businesses looking to make the most of the improved transport links.

The upgrades will also cut congestion in and around the city, making it easier for people to get around.

Cllr Ruth Rosenau, cabinet member for regeneration planning and transportation, said:  “Well maintained highways are vital to the economic success of Stoke-on-Trent. By providing high quality commuter routes that have good links to ‘A’ roads and motorways we can attract new companies to the city as well as helping to put it on the map as a tourist attraction, bringing in visitors from across the country.

“We will invest this funding in projects that will achieve the best possible value for money for our taxpayers. However, we must remember that times are still financially challenging and Government hand-outs are limited so, while very welcome, the money will not magically fix all issues on our roads.”

The DfT is investing £1.5bn to improve the highways network and combat congestion.

A total of £215m is being allocated to local authorities and will be dedicated to renewing, repairing and extending the life of roads in England.

The money will be split over 2013/2014 and 2014/2015 and is aimed at supporting job creation, economic growth and local communities.