North East could miss out again in Government’s 10 year transport plan
Sep 26 2009 by Adrian Pearson, The Journal
The cash is intended to upgrade key routes but is already the subject of controversy after the Department for Transport decided the region’s spending wishlist had used up too much money. It said work would effectively be suspended on improving the A19’s Moor Farm and Seaton Burn junctions, both of which are expected to see increasing congestion when the new Tyne Tunnel opens in 2012.
Paul Woods, Newcastle Council’s treasurer, told the meeting he has already met senior Highways Agency officers to “make sure they are aware how serious we take the issue of the programme being suspended”.
The transport authority has also agreed to request the Government’s high speed rail line planners visit the region after a series of rail proposals appeared to bypass Newcastle.
Nexus boss Bernard Garner said he would work with the ITA to contact the director of High Speed 2, the Government group set up to pick the best route for the new line.
If a line avoids the region it will mean businesses missing out on more than £2.2bn predicted to be added to the economy.
Mr Garner said he would offer the director the chance to visit the region and hear for himself arguments in favour of the development.
Funding will follow the national priorities so it is very important we understand the implications
