The interim report of the Union Connectivity Review, published today, creates a vision to boost connectivity across the UK, says the Prime Minister.
The review, set up by the Prime Minister last year, aims to identify projects to boost cross-border transport links across the UK.
In June, Sir Peter Hendy CBE was tasked with exploring ways in which transport can better connect all parts of the United Kingdom.
The report identifies some of the key concerns raised so far. They include the need to improve the A1 and the East Coast Main Line, which will serve Reston station when it reopens.
In relation to road links, the report states that the A1 north of Newcastle is “single carriageway where average delays are higher and average speeds lower than other non-motorway sections”.
The UK Government will also consult on cutting air passenger duty on internal UK flights, and will commit £20m to develop plans for upgraded cross-border rail, road, sea and air links.
Another key project identified by the review so far, includes the need to upgrade the A75 between Gretna and Stranraer, to help traffic flow to Northern Ireland.
Borders MP, John Lamont, is due to lead a debate next week in Parliament on the review and the opportunities it holds for the Scottish Borders.
John Lamont MP said:
“This review of cross-border transport links is very welcome and long overdue. Communities like those in the Scottish Borders rely on being able to travel efficiently to places like Berwick, Carlisle and further afield.
“This can be for work, education, to do the weekly shop, or even just to go for a walk or play sport.
“That’s why I am pushing hard for the Borders Railway extension and for improvements to roads like A1 to be included. I was delighted to hear that groups including the Campaign for Borders Rail are engaging with this review and shouting loudly on behalf of their members and local communities.
“Next week in Parliament, I will be holding a debate on the need for improved cross border transport links. I look forward to making Borderers voices heard.
“Sadly, the SNP Government have so far refused to engage with this review and have blocked their officials from working with the UK Government to make these projects a reality. It's time they put their narrow-minded view of Scotland aside and start doing what is best for areas like ours.”
Rachael Hamilton MSP said:
“The Union Connectivity Review addresses issues around road, rail and ferry links across the four nations of the UK, offering potential solutions which will boost growth in every region.
“Cross-border travel links are crucial to the Scottish Borders, and over the years we have seen the SNP Government ignore the need to improve these connections.
“I have campaigned since 2016 for the dualling of the A1 and the extension to the Borders Railway, both projects must come top of the list when it comes to new infrastructure projects.
“Whilst, constituents have been keen to engage in the review, astonishingly, the SNP Government have been uncooperative in the Review process, potentially blocking investment and improvements to infrastructure in Scotland.
“I am glad the UK Government has identified the need for cross-border improvements, unlike the narrow-minded SNP who continue to focus on the Central Belt”.
Union Connectivity Review Chair, Sir Peter Hendy CBE said:
“Devolution has been good for transport, but it has also led to a lack of attention to connectivity between the four nations, due to competing priorities and complex funding. A UK Strategic Transport Network could resolve this, with its core objective centred around levelling up across the whole of the UK.”
