Over 700 construction jobs will be supported in 2014 by more than £130 million of investment in 30 separate schemes on the south west’s roads, the Government announced today.
The total national investment in 209 schemes is £4.3 billion, £1.9 billion of which will be spent in 2014 alone – more than twice the amount spent in 2013.
The road programmes – which include the dualling of the A30 between Temple and Higher Carblake on Bodmin Moor – are estimated to boost the economy by over £18.8 billion and are part of a £100 billion package of investment in Britain’s infrastructure over the next seven years; the largest programme of investment since the 1970s.
Roads Minister Robert Goodwill said: “Roads are the lifeblood that keeps our economy going – they create jobs and help get products to markets. This Government is committed to delivering the modern infrastructure we need to compete in the global race, investing across the board to cut congestion and reduce journey times in roads, rail and local transport.
“We are already seeing massive improvements being made to our major roads and motorways. In 2014 the public will see even greater improvements right across the country.”
The proposed £60 million widening of the A30 is estimated to begin in 2014/15, with a 2016/17 completion. The scheme will support 89 construction jobs and is being predicted to benefit the economy by more than £300 million.
