The Union Connectivity Review, published today and led by Sir Peter Hendy, has looked at transport infrastructure across the United Kingdom. Working closely with the devolved administrations, Sir Peter has looked at road, rail, air and sea links and has considered where future investment can be targeted to enhance transport infrastructures and networks, further supporting the UK’s economic recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic.
The Review highlights opportunities for investment in North Wales’ transport connections, proposing that the UK Government, working with the Welsh Government, reviews the route connecting North Wales to the North-West of England, which is a key link for both communities and for businesses. It is suggested that a package of improvements focused on this route should target better connectivity with HS2 and major railway electrification schemes, upgrades to the A55, the M53, M56, and improving onward travel to and from the island of Ireland.
Welcoming the review, Robin Millar, MP for Aberconwy, said: For too long people here in Aberconwy, and throughout North Wales, have had to rely on aging and over-crowded carriages and infrequent rail services. The A55 is not able to cope with the volume of traffic it carries and grinds to a standstill when there's an accident or necessary maintenance takes place.
Continuing, Robin said: “I welcome and support the recommendations in this review for improving connectivity between North Wales and North-West England on the A55, M53 and M56 roads and on the North Wales Coast Main Line for faster journey times, more resilience and capacity, utilising HS2 and electrification to better serve North Wales, and for connectivity with Northern Ireland and the Republic.”
Finishing, Robin said: “Tens of thousands of people travel between North Wales and England every day for work and for business. Countless journeys are made in both directions by people visiting their friends and loved ones and, of course, enhanced transport links are a vital service for tourists and increasing railway capacity is key to us meeting our decarbonisation commitments. I thank Sir Peter for all the work that has gone into this review, and I look forward to working with Government at all levels to deliver the transport infrastructure that North Wales needs and deserves.”
Also welcoming the review the Prime Minister, Boris Johnson MP, said: “If we want to truly level up the country then it’s vital that we improve connectivity between all corners of the UK, making it easier for more people to get to more places, more quickly.
“Sir Peter Hendy’s review is an inspiring vision for the future of transport which we will now consider carefully. Determined to get to work right away, we will set up a strategic UK-wide transport network that can better serve the whole country with stronger sea, rail and road links - not only bringing us closer together, but boosting jobs, prosperity and opportunity.”