HC Deb 27 March 2001 vol 365 c569W
Mr. Dawson

To ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions what plans he has to upgrade junction 34 of the M6; and if he will make a statement. [155792]

Mr. Hill

The Highways Agency is aware of the problems with junction 34 on the M6. Long term plans for the junction are dependent on d3cisions about the proposed local authority link road between Morecambe/ Heysham and the M6. In the interim, shorter-term measures have been identified by the Agency. Bids for funds for the 2002-03 financial year will be considered on their merits and in the light of other regional priorities. I have asked the Chief Executive of the Highways Agency, Mr. Tim Matthews, to write 10 my hon. Friend.

Letter from Tim Matthews to Mr. Hilton Dawson, dated 27 March 2001:

The Transport Minister, Keith Hill, has asked me to write to you in reply to your recent question about the plans to upgrade Junction 34 of the M6.

Safety is a top priority for the Highways Agency and we constantly monitor the operation of our network to identify where improvements are needed. In recognition of this the Highways Agency is currently working in partnership with Lancashire County Council on plans for a link road between Morecambe/Horsham and the M6. One of the route options being considered would see a link road connecting with the M6 at Junction 34 However, this would require a major change in the layout of the junction. Our long-term plans for Junction 34 very much depend on the outcome of these discussions about the link road.

In the meantime, following a study last year into the junction, a number of short-term improvements have been identified. These include extending the southbound on slip road, dualling the northbound off slip road and making improvements to the signs and road markings at the junction. A bid for funds will be made to carry out this work during the 2002/03 financial ear. However any bid will be considered on its merits and in the light of other funding priorities.

If you would like any other further information, please contact the Route Manager, Bob Baldwin at Sunley Tower, Piccadilly Plaza, Manchester MI 4BE—Tel: 0161 930 5680.