Midlands Connect research suggests nearly three quarters of residents support A46 Newark bypass upgrade

New research suggests that upgrading the A46 Newark bypass has widespread support from residents and businesses, with a potential boost to the economy.

In consumer research carried out for Midlands Connect — which examines transport projects across the region — nearly three quarters, 73%, of residents support the project.

It is revealed that 35% fully support the completion of the Newark bypass and a further 38% support it to some extent — only 9% do not support the scheme.

It is also shown that 70% think the completion of the bypass could boost the economy and create jobs, with 44% believe the scheme could be labeled as ‘leveling up’.

Last week Midlands Connect released a report outlining its proposed upgrades to the Newark bypass and urged government to finish the job.

The £400m to £500m scheme has been described as the ‘last piece of the puzzle’ in improving the A46 trade corridor.

The project plans to widen 6.5km of existing single carriageway between the Farndon and Winthorpe roundabouts, to a dual carriageway.

Planned improvements will be made to the traffic signals at the Farndon roundabout to improve traffic flow during peak hours.

A new dual-carriageway bridge will also be built over the A1, the Winthorpe roundabout will be enlarged and partial signalling installed to reduce congestion, and a flyover junction will be built at the Cattlemarket roundabout.

Michael Hardy, Newark Business Club’s action group chairman said: "As a business club we are fully supportive of this scheme and it's long term benefits.

“Newark is an important gateway to and from the Midlands for ports for business and the coast for leisure, the current road configuration has not been acceptable for years.

"Improving the infrastructure will have a positive impact on local businesses in and around town as current congestion levels put consumers off visiting.

“It will also open up opportunities for investment, bringing jobs to the area."

Commenting on the research, Integrated Transport Programme lead, Swati Mittal said: “This much-needed upgrade will bring safer and more reliable journeys both for the local communities enduring delays.

“The improvements will also provide an economic boost for communities across the region, supporting growth and development.

“Congestion is only going to get worse here around Newark, so we want to act now to develop this modified route and help build a better, safer road network.”

Richard Davies, vice-chairman of Transport for the East Midlands, said: "Improvements to the Newark Bypass are essential to unlocking the full potential of the A46 as a vital national trade corridor, driving economic growth in the region.

"Improvements to the bypass remain Transport for the East Midlands top strategic road priority, and this research shows that completing this work is a local priority too."