A120 dualling raised by Priti in Commons
Witham MP Priti Patel has questioned the Chancellor of the Exchequer over the scheme to dual the A120 between Braintree and the junction with the A12 at Marks Tey. Essex County Council have previously prepared a feasibility study to develop a planned route for the dualling scheme, which National Highways and the Government are now examining and considering. The Government had previously indicated that the dualling scheme would be brought forward in the 2025-2030 Road Investment Strategy 3 (RIS3) period.
During questions to the Chancellor of the Exchequer in the House of Commons (11th October 2022), Priti raised the importance of the scheme to supporting economic growth and road safety and called on the Government to commit to backing and fully funding the scheme. In response, the Chancellor stated that the scheme was “under active consideration” by the Government. Priti said:
“We’ve all campaigned hard over many years to get the A120 dualling scheme proposals to come forward and I was pleased to work with Essex County Council to develop an option that had widespread public support providing a dualled road between Braintree and the A12. Dualling the A120 will unlock significant new economic benefits, reduce congestion through local villages and make this road safer.”
“The scheme is now sitting with the Treasury and Department for Transport to determine the next steps. I welcome the assurance that the scheme continues to be considered by the Government and will carry on pressing for it to be fully funded and delivered as soon as possible.”