A two-way traffic?

Peck, Frank ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0003-1976-154X (2016) A two-way traffic? In Cumbria Magazine, 2016 (Dec). p. 63.

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Abstract

Professor Frank Peck of the University of Cumbria’s Centre for Regional Economic Development writes for in-Cumbria on the big issues of the day and the economic data behind them. This month, road investment in Cumbria. The Chancellor, Philip Hammond, has unveiled his plans for the economy in the 2016 Autumn Statement. A significant element in the strategy included an announcement to boost spending on infrastructure to support the UK economy. Cumbrian interest has been aroused by the inclusion of plans to complete the “dualling” of the A66 between Scotch Corner and Penrith. The justification for this prioritisation is no doubt related to the current emphasis on north-south connectivity and potential criticism that east-west routes are being overlooked. This announcement shows that government recognises the need to invest in east-west connectivity in the north of England. It is poignant to note, however, that while an upgrade of the A66 east of Penrith is included as a medium-long term priority in the Infrastructure Plan of Cumbria Local Enterprise Partnership, it is not the most critical aspect for road investment in the county. It is the east -west routes within Cumbria that are considered more critical for attracting investment and supporting business growth. These “intra-regional” routes include the upgrade of the A595 connecting Carlisle to West Cumbria and associated investment in the Southern Link Road around Carlisle. Further enhancements to the A590 from the M6 to Barrow are also highlighted to support expansion of subsea technology, advanced manufacturing and pharmaceuticals in the south of the county. As for the A66, the most critical aspect within Cumbria concerns connectivity from the M6 to the West Coast.

Item Type:	Article
Journal / Publication Title:	In Cumbria Magazine
Publisher:	CN Group
Departments:	Centre for Regional Economic Development (CRED)
Depositing User:	Anna Lupton
Date Deposited:	16 Mar 2018 11:49
Last Modified:	12 Jan 2024 16:31
URI:	https://insight.cumbria.ac.uk/id/eprint/3689

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