Government confirms vital funding for Long Stratton Bypass
ÂŁ26.2 million has been committed by the Department for Transport
The Government has confirmed vital funding for the Long Stratton Bypass project in Norfolk.
The Department for Transport has committed ÂŁ26.2 million towards the cost of building the new road, which the county council says will cut congestion and support the local economy.
Cllr Martin Wilby, Norfolk County Council’s Cabinet member for highways, infrastructure and transport and member of Transport East said: “This is fantastic news and a most timely announcement from government, particularly in view of the Covid-19 recovery. The A140 through Long Stratton is a real pinch point that affects thousands of road users, and the people who live and work in Long Stratton, on a daily basis. We want to deliver this vital scheme as soon as possible to cut congestion, help the local economy and vastly improve this major regionally important route linking Norwich and Ipswich. The bypass is set to create hundreds of new jobs and homes, open up improvements for cycling and walking, and solve traffic and transport issues local people have been facing for more than a generation.”
South Norfolk District Councillor, Alison Thomas said: “Having campaigned for a bypass for Long Stratton since 1997 I am delighted that funding has been agreed as we have lobbied hard and the government has listened. Our role now will be to ensure the project is delivered within budget and timescales to improve the safety and well-being of all those living, working or travelling through Long Stratton. This is a great day for Long Stratton residents and one many feared would never come!”
The estimated overall cost of the bypass is ÂŁ37.44m. The rest of the money is due to come mainly from local developer contributions and Community Infrastructure Levy.
The target start date of construction is the middle of the next year.