Tens of millions of pounds are to be spent building a new road linking St Austell in Cornwall to the A30 in a bid to ease congestion and improve journey times for drivers.
The Government said the new 3.9-mile single carriageway road would include a shared cycle and pedestrian facility running alongside its full length.
The Department for Transport will provide a £78.5m in funding for the scheme, with Cornwall Council contributing £6.4m for an overall investment of £84.9m.
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Some 6,300 new jobs are expected to be created as part of the investment, according to the Government, which said the new road would generate almost £112m in economic benefits through reduced journey times and providing more options to walk and cycle.
The new road will be designed to a 60mph standard with three additional roundabouts to provide access to local communities.
Roads minister Baroness Vere said on Friday, June 3: "We are committed to delivering world-class infrastructure in Cornwall to ensure the local economy can truly thrive.
“This £78.5m investment will improve connectivity and attract crucial economic investment for Cornwall and St Austell, while giving motorists, cyclists and pedestrians the modern, safe and uncongested roads they deserve."
Cornwall Council leader Linda Taylor said the road would make a "huge difference" to residents and businesses.
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She said: "We put forward a strong bid to government and I’m delighted that the Department for Transport has now confirmed the funding. It will bring further opportunities to the St Austell area, including economic growth and improved access to Cornwall’s growing employment sites.”
There will be a total of 5.5 miles of new paths and routes for walking, cycling and horse riding, as well as a ‘green corridor’ of wildflowers, heathland, trees, and shrubs to support wildlife habitats.
Councillor Andrea Davis, chair of Peninsula Transport, added: “It is these types of improvements that are key to levelling up the economic performance of the South West. This investment will bring far reaching benefits into the region by unlocking sustainable growth and supporting plans for future homes and jobs.”
The scheme has received final approval, meaning construction can now begin. It is forecast to complete in the spring 2024.
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