The Government today reassured motorists in the West Midlands that a vital road scheme linking the M54 with the M6 Toll will go ahead after a minister appeared to suggest it was being scrapped.
Department of Transport officials confirmed that the link road - seen as crucial for business and commuters - remained in the roads programme. The multi-million pound project is currently in the planning stage.
A final decision about the go-ahead is due in 2010 with a view to completion in 2012.
However, roads minister Tom Harris raised doubts about its future when he was pressed by Tory MP Mark Pritchard in the Commons yesterday.
The Wrekin MP called for a commitment that the connection would go ahead and that there would be no tolls imposed on the M54.
Appearing to mix up his motorways, Mr Harris replied: “I can confirm that there are no plans to impose a toll on the M56, but I can also say that the plans to extend the toll road northwards are not being progressed.”
Mr Pritchard, who initially thought that Mr Harris had announced the shelving of the link road, said: “I am glad the minister has ruled out announcing any new tolls on the M54 connection to the M6 Toll. People are paying enough road tax already.
“But people will be shocked that the roads minister does not seem to know one motorway from another or what new road schemes are being planned or dropped.”
Wolverhampton North East MP Ken Purchase said: “This is an important road scheme for the region and for the development of the M54 corridor. It is going ahead, and it will not be subject to tolls.”
Telford MP David Wright commented: “This is a crucial link which will ease congestion at the eastern end of the M54. It is very important for business growth in Telford.
“I am glad the department has clarified the position.”
By London Editor John Hipwood
One Comment
“not being progressed”? Why do people use this kind of tortured, nonsense English? Why not just say you’re not going to do something or don’t know if you are?