New hope for link up between M6 and M54

Axed plans for a link road between the M54 and M6 northbound could yet become a reality as it emerged three routes were still being considered by transport bosses.

The £70 million plan was a casualty in the government's axing of millions of pounds of transport schemes earlier this year.

But MPs, councillors and residents are still hoping it can become a reality with private investment. Councillor Bob Cope, who represents Featherstone and Shareshill, said today three routes were on the table.

The cheapest option is a straight line from Junction 11 of the M6 at Cannock to Junction 1 of the M54, cutting through Hilton Hall parkland.

"Two others routes are being considered which are closer to the present southern connection between the M54 and M6," Councillor Cope said.

"Both would be the preferred route of many of my constituents but would be more expensive to construct.

"There will be a push to deliver this link as soon as possible. This subject has been ongoing for years, with most of my constituents in favour of a link in order to relieve traffic congestion on the A460.

"But my concern is in the present economic climate and the suggestion private finance will deliver the project, the cheapest option may influence the routing of the link road to the detriment of my ward."

Telford Labour MP David Wright and Telford & Wrekin Council leader Kuldip Sahota are also backing the link.

"I understand Telford and Shropshire's demand for this link but if private finance is forthcoming it must not result in this link being another toll road extension," said Councillor Cope.

"This will not help to relieve congestion on the A460, which will get considerably worse with the new prison traffic and potentially other proposed developments." An M54 link with the M6 north was first proposed five years ago.