Fresh hopes for M54 link road to M6

A congestion-busting link road between Shropshire's M54 and the M6 this afternoon moved a step closer to reality after it was revealed it had made a four scheme shortlist.

And campaigners have been summoned to attend fresh talks with the Government to plead their case for the multi-million pound scheme which they say is vital for the area.

A delegation from Telford & Wrekin Council has been invited to travel to London to discuss the plans with ministers from the Department for Transport.

Russell Griffin, a spokesman for the council, said the scheme was one of four being considered for funding. He said the news marked 'significant progress' in the battle to get the motorway connection built between the M54 and the M6 North and M6 Toll.

Mike Penning, Under Secretary of State for the Department for Transport, has asked to meet borough MPs, council leaders and representatives of the business community.

His invitation comes after council leader Kuldip Sahota wrote to the Department for Transport to highlight the impact the lack of a motorway link was having on businesses in the borough.

Telford MP David Wright said the meeting clearly showed the Government recognised the strong case being put forward by Telford & Wrekin campaigners for the link road.

In the letter, Mr Penning says: "In conducting the review, we are currently considering the allocation of development funding for the future schemes. I would be happy to meet with you to discuss the scheme."

Councillor Sahota said: "We consider the scheme would have significant economic benefits for the area and we look forward to finding out from the minister the scheme's current position and what the plans are for developing and potentially implementing the scheme.

"The absence of a suitable link is holding back economic development and inward investment in Telford."

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