Chancellor says case for junction upgrade being considered

THE Chancellor has confirmed that long-awaited upgrades to a notorious Northumberland roundabout are being “properly considered” by officials.

- JAMES ROBINSON

The planned project had previously been deemed as “poor value for money” by Government officials.

However, following changes to the way in which the viability of projects is assessed, Rachel Reeves confirmed in the House of Commons that the upgrade is under consideration for inclusion in the road investment strategy.

The Chancellor made the announcement following questions from Cramlington and Killingworth MP Emma Foody.

The Labour and Cooperative MP has regularly raised the issue in parliament, and has now urged the chancellor to back the scheme.

Ms Foody said: “I have been campaigning for improvements to the Moor Farm roundabout, which is currently holding back growth across the North East and causing misery to local people on a daily basis.