Funding bid hopes for Kidderminster link road plans (From Kidderminster Shuttle)

Funding bid hopes for Kidderminster link road plans

9:00am Saturday 2nd March 2013 in Local By William Tomaney

PLANS to build a link road in Kidderminster could become a reality if a £5 million Government funding bid from Worcestershire County Council is successful.

Proposals for phase two of the Hoobrook Link road would connect the A451 Stourport Road to the A442 Worcester Road.

The council hopes it would reduce congestion in the area by offering motorists a second option when travelling across Kidderminster because it cuts out the need to travel through the town centre.

Local authorities have been invited to apply to central government for a share of the £170 million local pinch point fund, designed to remove bottlenecks on highways and support economic growth.

The Hoobrook Link road scheme – which will cost more than £10million in total – will improve access to the motorway network and link major employment corridors in Kidderminster.

The county council, which has been working with Wyre Forest District Council, claims the plan would have major benefits for existing businesses and make the area a more attractive place for investment.

Conservative county councillor Simon Geraghty, cabinet member for economy and infrastructure, said: “The second phase of the Hoobrook Link road is vitally important, not only to Kidderminster but to Worcestershire as a whole.

“It would reduce congestion and boost the local economy. We will certainly be doing all we can to secure the funding.”

John Campion, Conservative county and district councillor, added: “Pinch point funding will give us an excellent opportunity to tackle the traffic congestion that currently exists, unlocking capacity on the transport network and opportunities for regeneration.

“This is essential to bring forward development and accelerate the economic growth prospects of the district. This is a priority scheme for both the county and district councils and we will be doing everything possible to ensure this bid is successful.”

The funding bid will be submitted later this month.As part of the funding regulations, any money from any successful bid will have to be spent during the following financial year.