Hope for roundabout in new transport changes

THE Government has signalled a major change in the way it assesses key infrastructure projects, prompting hope for much-needed improvements to a notorious Northumberland roundabout.

- JAMES ROBINSON Local Democracy Reporter

Plans have been in the works for years to upgrade the Moor Farm Roundabout on the A19 along with nearby Seaton Burn roundabout.

The proposals were thrown into doubt when leading Conservative councillors revealed the plans had been deemed "poor value for money" by National Highways. However, Cramlington and Killingworth MP Emma Foody believes the changes to the so-called "Green Book test" used by Government to test value for money could be a boost for the upgrades and the region more generally.

Speaking in Parliament on Wednesday, Chancellor Rachel Reeves said the Government would move to "place-based business cases" that will support investment in regions across the country including the North East. The current system has been criticised for favouring projects in London and the South East.