Many constituents have been in contact with me about progress on the development of the Towcester Relief Road.

I have kept up the pressure on Persimmon, the developer and other stakeholders during lockdown. 9 virtual meetings have taken place where I have received updates on the aspects of the planning permissions, engineering, archaeology, delivery and design. Whilst the speed of progress is disappointing, a lot of work has been done over the past year. 

I recently held a virtual public meeting attended by representatives from Persimmon, Highways England, SNC and NCC where constituents were able to ask their questions. 

Constituents raised their concerns about speed restrictions, air quality, traffic management, noise and the use of the A5 Watling Street as a rat run. Particularly on speed restrictions, Highways England have confirmed that they will use signage to discourage traffic from coming up Watling Street- this technique has been effective in other market towns. I can assure residents that I will continue to ‘beat the drum’ that this road is de-trunked. I will also continue to press Highways England on the weight restrictions and signage. 

Specific questions about traffic management, speed cameras and safety have been taken away by Highways England and other stakeholders for a further detailed response, and I will provide an update on my website once I have received a reply.

We are a long way behind where we wanted to be, for various reasons. But I am hopeful that we will reach the important milestone of the relief road being finished by 2023.  

As ever, if you have any questions or concerns about the relief road or any other topics then please email me on andrea.leadsom.mp@parliament.uk.