The Crittenden Automotive Library

Pinch Point Priority

Pinch Point Priority

Geoff Maxted
DriveWrite
September 28, 2013

We are rapidly approaching the pothole season when winters’ fearful forces lift the temporary repairs from the craters in the road and also make some new hazards for good measure. Our roads are a mess so it is nice to hear that we are finally going to see some action on our roads even if doesn’t concern potholes this time.

Communities up and down the country are apparently set to benefit from government funding which will tackle pinch points that clog up traffic flow on local roads. Our Transport Secretary, Patrick McLoughlin, has announced £80 million of further funding to remove these bottlenecks, building on the £190 million already allocated earlier this year to similar local congestion-busting schemes throughout England. Of that £80 million, £25 million in government funding has been awarded to 15 schemes to help tackle bottlenecks on the local road network.

The Secretary of State also announced he was inviting local councils to submit bids by the end of October for a share of the remaining £55 million being made available.

Many of the improvements are expected to be delivered in 2014 and 2015. Friday‘s announcement brings the total number of schemes to receive investment from the government’s local pinch point fund to eighty seven. Since March this year the government has provided over £215 million to local authorities, which has enabled local transport improvements of over £340 million to go ahead.

The fund reflects the government’s commitment to supporting economic growth by tackling barriers on the local highway network that may be restricting the movement of goods and people. The fund is aimed at those schemes that can be delivered quickly with immediate impact. The Transport Secretary said:

‘Keeping traffic moving is vital to securing prosperity. By removing local bottlenecks and improving access to local development sites and communities, these schemes will help get people to and from work and power the economy. They also have the potential to help deliver new jobs and homes. The Local Pinch Point Fund is already making a difference on the ground. I am pleased that I can today announce a further 15 successful schemes which will receive £25 million of funding from my department. These schemes will help alleviate key local bottlenecks around the country, making life easier for the thousands of motorists and businesses who use the local road network every day.’

Mark these words and keep your eyes out for the actions that will speak louder than the words.