The Expressway solution has been ruled out

M6 decision is good for environment

County Council transport chiefs have welcomed a Government announcement ruling out the option of a parallel M6 Toll Road Expressway.

From the outset Staffordshire has been keen that the Government consult widely with the community and business to ensure that the solution meets local needs.

Staffordshire has been determined that any solution to the M6 congestion problem should minimise environmental impacts and land take, and maximise value for money, while focusing clearly on the economic and social benefits for Staffordshire.

The County has always felt that some widening of the M6 between Manchester and Birmingham would be needed to deal with the capacity problem, but was very concerned about the potential impacts and cost of a parallel toll road option.

The proposal for a separate toll road seemed especially inappropriate as the Government is looking at the development of a national system of road pricing in the next decade.

Staffordshire's Economic Regeneration and Highways cabinet member Councillor John Wakefield said: "The choices have been completely open to public debate and the consensus has been clear. The Government is listening and we applaud that commitment to finding the right balance that meets the needs of the economy, the environment and the people.

"Now we need to look in detail at what is proposed on the widening solution to ensure it achieves the benefits to the economy and the environment which the community so clearly needs and wants," he said.

Page Last Modified: 30/01/2007 16:03:37

Back to top