Julian sees opportunities in Transport Investment Strategy
July 5, 2017
Julian has welcomed the Department for Transport’s newly announced investment plan for Britain. The creation of a ‘Major Road Network’ with access to up to a £1 billion fund means that for the first time, main roads overseen by local authorities can have a slice of the annual £5.3bn National Road Fund. This fund is raised from Vehicle Excise Duty and was previously only available for national routes.
The Transport Investment Strategy plans for a new rebalancing measure which will judge how investment programmes contribute to a more balanced economy, and prioritises investment that increases productivity and growth whilst tackling congestion.
Following the announcement, Julian said: “this announcement could prove crucial to finally dualling York’s outer ring-road. Unlike the A64, the A1237 is the responsibility of City of York Council and funding for feasibility studies and businesses cases, as well as the considerable capital costs for construction, is much harder to secure for local authorities.
Most motorists pay Vehicle Excise Duty and many will be happy to know that these receipts are being spent to improve a greater amount of our road network. Investment in our outer ring-road will benefit the economies of York and the wider region, and reduce congestion in the city centre.
It is crucial that we make the most of this opportunity and I shall be working closely with the Council to ensure we are able to submit the strongest possible application.”
Julian was able to raise the Major Road Network in a Westminster Hall debate on road infrastructure and noted the scheme’s ability to allow local authorities to move long-term transport projects forward whilst making a specific reference to York’s outer ring-road.
Furthermore, Julian will be meeting Neil Ferris, Corporate Director for Economy and Place at City of York Council next week to discuss how York can be best placed to benefit from the Government’s investment plan.
