£9m funding boost for two major Essex road schemes

The Department for Transport has provided more than £9m of funding to Essex County Council for two projects to tackle congestion and improve key routes in the county.

Announced by transport secretary Chris Grayling on 19 October, the funding will benefit thousands of drivers who regularly use the M11 and A120, as well as surrounding roads.

£4.09m has been provided towards a £10m scheme to upgrade Junction 8 on the M11. This junction often becomes a pinch point for commuters and holidaymakers using the M11, A120 and nearby London Stansted Airport.

The scheme is being part-funded by the South East Local Enterprise Partnership (SELEP) and the Greater Cambridgeshire and Peterborough LEP as well as London Stansted Airport.

£4.95m has also been pledged towards new slip roads linking the A120 to Millennium Way, giving much-needed relief to the notorious pinch-point at Galleys Corner. The scheme will also provide better access to Freeport Shopping Village.

This scheme is being part funded by Braintree District Council, Highways England and Essex County Council.

Cllr Kevin Bentley, deputy leader for Essex County Council, said:

“This funding will give a huge boost to regional economic growth along what are key routes for so many people who travel in and around Essex.

“Investment in roads infrastructure is vital to regional economic growth and I am delighted the Government is recognising the importance of investing in Essex by contributing this funding to help make these essential upgrades a reality.

“This funding comes just a week after Essex County Council was named as Transport Local Authority of the Year in the National Transport Awards.

“It is great to see our hard work behind the scenes and with partners to build a strong case for improvements to key routes across Essex is being recognised and is resulting in clear benefits for our residents, businesses and visitors to the county.

“This funding will change the lives of thousands of people not only in Essex, but across the country.”

23 October 2017