Govt 'must improve management' of strategic roads

Date: 2/12/2011

Strategic roads are of "enormous" importance to the growth of the economy, an expert has explained.

Non-Executive Chairman of the Highways Agency Alan Cook recently led a review into the way in which the government manages motorways and trunk roads in England.

He noted that these routes currently handle a third of all traffic in the country, as well as two-thirds of all freight vehicles.

However, the management of the roads needs to be reviewed with improved efficiency targets, as it could save taxpayers' money and boost the economy by providing a better service for motorists.

"Meeting the country's current economic and financial challenges demands a change in our approach," Mr Cook added.

The report also recommended the introduction of a new independent board for the Highways Agency, allowing it to make better decisions.

At the end of last month, proposals were put forward to upgrade the A1 trunk road near Elkesley and improve access to the village by constructing a bridge across the highway.

Posted by Mary Treen