THE TRANSPORT Secretary has added his support to a campaign to dual one of the busiest routes into Malvern.
Patrick McLoughlin has written to Harriett Baldwin, Malvern’s MP, confirming his department will be working with Worcestershire County Council to work out how the dualling of Carrington Road bridge can be taken forward.
The Minister was responding to calls made by Mrs Baldwin for the department to support the bridge improvement works, which she said are urgently needed to speed up traffic flow between junction seven of the M5 and Malvern and Worcester.
Mr McLoughlin visited the bridge site in April to see the controversial Ketch roundabout and the high levels of congestion faced by motorists travelling through the area.
Mrs Baldwin, West Worcestershire MP, said: “I was grateful for the Minister for coming and visiting the county.
“His letter shows the department is supportive of the LEP’s plans to bid for funding and it is willing to work with the county council to find a solution.
“Instinctively, we all know a fast-flowing road from Malvern and the west of Worcester towards the M5 will benefit local commuters and local businesses.
“It is clear the onus is now on the LEP and the county council to carry out that investigation and make the economic case to the Government.”
Mrs Baldwin added Robin Walker, Conservative MP for Worcester, would hold a debate on the bridge proposals next week.
