Road upgrade cash to unlock 2k jobs unlikely before 2031

No concrete Government commitment to A50/A500 plans

- Phil Corrigan Local Democracy Reporter

THE Government has refused to commit to funding improvements to the A50/A500 corridor before 2031.

Politicians and business leaders in Stoke-on-Trent and Staffordshire have long been calling for upgrades to the route between junction 15 on the M6 and Uttoxeter, to tackle congestion, improve safety and boost the local economy.

During a House of Commons debate, local MPs called on the Government to include the scheme in the next Road Investment Strategy, RIS3, which will run from 2026 to 2031.

But roads minister Simon Lightwood would only say that the A50/A500 proposals would be considered for inclusion within RIS4, after 2031, or late in RIS3, 'if funding becomes available.'

The Government is due to publish the RIS3, which will include £25 billion of investment, by next March.