Stafford MP Theo Clarke said today that £6.3 million of Levelling Up Fund money to improve the A34 between Weeping Cross and Gaol Square will be a boost to the area’s economy and also help the environment.
A major maintenance scheme to repair worn out sections of the trunk road will now go ahead following the announcement of the successful bid.
Also, part of the package is footway resurfacing, new pedestrian crossings, new and upgraded cycle routes, and green traffic signal refurbishments to tackle traffic congestion. This is new technology that prioritises green light time for oncoming buses if they are running late.
In addition, more than £2 million is to be invested in low emission electric and Euro VI diesel buses for the busy bus services between Stafford and Cannock.
“I am delighted the Government has said yes to this excellent bid that will make a huge difference to my constituents’ lives when they are driving or cycling and walking along this section of the A34,” said Mrs Clarke.
“This is just the sort of infrastructure investment we need to ensure people can get about and that our roads and cycle ways are fit for purpose in all cases. It’s a boost for our economy and for sustainable transport, and it will attract visitors to our town.
“I look forward to seeing more detail about what will happen and to visiting the improvements when work starts.”
Mrs Clarke also expressed her disappointment that Stafford Borough Council’s application for the Gateway Project was not successful in this funding round.
“This was a great bid that I was happy to support having met with the council many times to discuss it and having actively lobbied ministers on the council’s behalf," she explained
“I spoke with the Levelling Up minister today who told me the bid was shortlisted but just failed to get through the final round.
“She has agreed to meet me and relevant officials in parliament soon to discuss the bid and how we can improve it so it stands the best chance of success in the next round of Levelling up allocations.”
Levelling Up minister Dehenna Davison added: “Theo is a brilliant local campaigner, and I’m happy to announce that Staffordshire County Council is receiving nearly £20million for their Major Road Network through the Levelling Up Fund.
“However, I know the news that the Stafford Station Gateway has not received funding will be disappointing to her and others in Stafford.
This was an incredibly competitive round - with over £8billion of bids for just over £2billion of funding.
“I know Theo will work tirelessly with the department on improving Stafford’s Station bid, ahead of any future funding opportunities.”