Survey shows significant support for A64 improvements
The MP for Thirsk, Malton and Filey says he'll continue to push for the A64 to be improved
The MP for Thirsk, Malton and Filey says he will continue with the campaign to dual the A64.
Kevin Hollinrake said:
"Following two meetings this week with local MPs, Highways England, council representatives and the North Yorkshire Local Enterprise Partnership, I will continue to push for the A64 to be prioritised for road improvement work. Constituents will be aware I have been advocating for this since being elected in 2015 and, following yet another serious crash yesterday at York Road, this epitomises the urgency of the upgrade needed. This is the most accident-prone route in the country and I hope those involved in yesterday's incident are not seriously injured.
"Following the National Highways A64 Hopgrove survey held at the end of 2021, responses have now been analysed which make clear there is significant support for improvements to the A64. Responses came from a broad geographical range, from Bradford to Leeds and along the north east coast, as well as a range of age groups. The vast majority expressed unhappiness about the road with 87% stating they were very unhappy or unhappy. The primary concerns of respondents were congestion, safety and experience using the road. Many respondents expressed the view that the only solution was to make the A64 a dual carriageway - an aim I strongly agree with and one I have been working on since 2015.
"I have requested a meeting with Transport Minister, Baroness Vere, to reiterate the need for certainty of action and look forward to working with local stakeholders, council leaders and my fellow North Yorkshire on MPs to ensure this remains at the top of the Government's transport agenda."
National Highways Route Manager Paul Mitchinson said:
“We recognise the strength of local feeling on this issue. Although National Highways has a number of safety and maintenance schemes either on the ground on the A64 or in design, there is currently no commitment from government for dualling the entirety of the A64.
"We recently sought public feedback to help us inform our business case to the Department for Transport for proposed improvements between A64 Hopgrove and Barton-le-Willows.
"This is one of 32 projects being considered around the country for potential construction beyond 2025 although there is currently no commitment from the government to develop this scheme beyond this current stage.”