The Department for Transport (DfT) has published a new transport investment plan. This includes the proposed creation of what it calls a ‘Major Road Network’.

The DfT said that the major road network proposal “would see a share of the annual National Road Fund, funded by VED, given to local authorities to improve or replace the most important A roads under their management”.

In a statement issued today, the Transport Secretary Chris Grayling said the investment will “create a more reliable, less congested and better connected transport network”.

The investment plan has been generally well received by the transport stakeholders.

In a statement, the Freight Transport Association (FTA) said the plan was “good news for the sector” but added that “more investment is needed to upgrade the road network”.

The FTA statement added: “The policy dedicates funds raised from Vehicle Excise Duty (VED) to road improvements. The money can be used for major local authority roads as well as the Strategic Road Network but FTA says it cannot not be the sole solution to finance future road infrastructure projects.”

FTA’s Head of National and Regional Policy Christopher Snelling commented: “FTA believes that the government focus on investing in roads that will deliver improved performance, economic growth and reduce bottlenecks is correct. Enhanced road infrastructure can only make Britain’s logistics network and business dealings more efficient.

“Major local authority roads form a crucial part of the road network so our members welcome the news that the new fund can be allocated to support a wider range of projects.  However, this extension of use will undoubtedly mean greater calls on one pot of money, so the Government will need to support infrastructure investment beyond just that provided by VED.”  
Subscribe to Newsletter