A55 improvements highlighted in Union Connectivity Review
Ynys Môn MP, Virginia Crosbie said today it was brilliant news that a UK-wide transport infrastructure review has highlighted improvements to the A55 and a new ferry route from Warrenpoint to Holyhead.
Virginia has been pushing for investment on the island and was praised by the Transport Secretary Grant Shapps who called her a ‘strong advocate’ for the island.
The interim report for the Prime Minister by Sir Peter Hendy has identified the A55 'as being of interest to the review' because it is a vital freight route as Holyhead is the only major UK port in North Wales and better links are needed for lorries and passengers.
He also identified a new ferry link from Warrenpoint in Northern Ireland to Holyhead because of the reliance on maritime travel between Great Britain and the island of Ireland for large numbers of people.
Virginia had also spoken to Sir Peter ahead of the publication of the report to make the case for Anglesey.
“The inclusion of Ynys Môn in this review is brilliant news and it puts the need we have for better transport infrastructure in ministers’ minds ahead of the full report from Sir Peter in the summer,” said Virginia.
“Until then I won’t stop making the case for an improved A55. With a proposed £4.8 million government investment in a Hydrogen hub already announced, we need the best possible main arterial roads to make sure goods and people can move around.
“This is more really positive news for Ynys Môn. It shows our island is part of the UK’s strategic thinking and this will mean more opportunities going forward."
The Transport Secretary added: “As we build back better from coronavirus, it is more important than ever we level-up every corner of our great country.
“Virginia has been a strong advocate for improving transport links to Ynys Mon and across North Wales since her election. Given its significance to the local area, it’s not surprising that Sir Peter Hendy has recognised the importance of the A55 in his interim report.
“I look forward to seeing his final recommendations later this year and continuing to work with Virginia on improving transport links for her constituents.”
Sir Peter also said: “I was pleased to talk to Virginia Crosbie about the importance to the United Kingdom both of the port of Holyhead, and greater capacity and better journey times for passengers and freight to and from Ynys Môn and England. These important issues are specifically mentioned in the foreword to my interim report to the Prime Minister.”
