Thursday 09:30
Gillian Merron, Transport Minister, today announced the provision of £3.127M to allow the completion of the Tunstall Northern Bypass in the West Midlands. The funding will allow the construction of a strategic link from the A527 to the A50, A500 and M6, thereby relieving Tunstall town centre of heavy through traffic and improving access to proposed industrial and residential development sites to the north of Tunstall.
Gillian Merron said:
"By relieving Tunstall town centre of heavy through traffic, the Northern Bypass will allow pedestrian and traffic management improvements, reduce accidents, and assist measures to encourage cycling and improve public transport. It will also improve access to proposed industrial and residential development sites.
"The £3.127m of funding towards the cost of the scheme demonstrates the Government's commitment to improving the road network, tackling congestion, improving safety and aiding regeneration."
Notes to editors
1. Today's announcement gives the Final Approval with the Department for Transport providing a total funding contribution of £3.127m.
2. The Tunstall Northern Bypass was given Provisional Approval in December 2003 and Conditional Approval in March 2006. The scheme has had all of its necessary statutory procedures confirmed.
3. Stoke hopes to be in a position to commence construction in December 2006 for the scheme to be completed in December 2007.
Public Enquiries: 020 7944 8300 Department for Transport Website: http://www.dft.gov.uk
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