Businesses Invited to Share Views on M54/M6 Link Amid Transport Spending Review

Companies affected by traffic congestion and gridlock have been encouraged to submit their perspectives on the necessity of a northbound M54/M6 link road, as the government conducts a review of transport expenditures. Midlands Connect, an entity focused on advancing transport initiatives in the region, aims to gather insights from firms’ experiences to underscore the demand for the £200 million project, which received approval in 2022. National Highways reported that preparatory work for the construction of the motorway link between the M54 and M6 is underway, but highlighted that the Department for Transport’s spending portfolio is currently under review. The Department for Transport (DfT) confirmed that its review process is ongoing. The DfT directed the BBC to a written statement from Transport Secretary Louise Haigh in July, in which she stated that the previous administration had left a £22 billion funding gap, with £2.9 billion of this amount comprising unfunded transport commitments. Midlands Connect has urged businesses to emphasize the “critical demand to upgrade this vital link,” which would serve Shropshire, Staffordshire, and Wolverhampton. It indicated that numerous businesses along the M54 corridor, currently hindered by gridlock and daily delays on local roads such as the A449 and A460, would benefit. Swati Mittal, integrated transport programme lead, stated: “We want to hear about the impact that local congestion and gridlock on the A460 and A449 can cause your firm on a daily basis.” Midlands Connect referenced a construction industry report that noted the cancellation of five schemes nationwide. Ms Mittal commented: “As the government reviews the capital programme, we are working to give them up-to-date evidence, but also the latest views and intelligence from local firms.” National Highways has indicated that the scheme is designed to provide an improved connection between the M54 and M6. Currently, there is no direct northbound motorway link connecting the two. National Highways explained that this situation leads to “huge volumes of both long distance and local traffic” utilizing local roads to navigate the route. In September, National Highways affirmed: “While the review is ongoing, we’re continuing with the preparatory works and remain committed to the project.” The agency reported that a high-pressure gas pipeline is being diverted and a new delivery partner is being appointed, with preparatory activities anticipated to conclude in December. The 2.5-kilometer (1.6-mile) road, connecting junction one of the M54 with junction 11 of the M6, is expected to alleviate congestion through the Staffordshire villages of Featherstone, Hilton, and Shareshill. For further engagement, BBC Wolverhampton & Black Country is available on BBC Sounds, Facebook, X, and Instagram. This material is subject to Copyright 2024 BBC, with all rights reserved. The BBC bears no responsibility for the content of external sites. Information concerning the BBC’s approach to external linking can be reviewed.