Sir James Duddridge KCMG, Member of Parliament for Rochford and Southend East, and Anna Firth, Member of Parliament for Southend West, have both welcomed an additional £3.425 Million to improve road safety along the A13.
The third round of the Safer Roads Fund provides a total investment of £47.5 Million to improve road safety on twenty-seven of England's most high-risk roads. Following analysis of data on accidents and travel levels from the Road Safety Foundation, the A13 was identified as a high-risk road.
Early estimates suggest that this investment should help prevent 760 fatal and serious crashes over the next twenty years across the country, with a £420 Million benefit to society.
Commenting, Sir James said:
“Running through the heart of the city, the A13 is dangerously narrow at times and heavily congested, creating a risk to all road users. I am pleased that the Department for Transport has granted £3.425 Million to deliver the much-needed upgrades to the A13.
“From improving traffic flows, upgrading junctions and installing new signage, this £3.425 Million investment will go a long way to improving road safety along the A13 and getting our city moving.”
Following the announcement, Anna said:
“I am absolutely delighted that Southend will be receiving £3.425 million from the Government to improve the A13. This road desperately needs upgrading – it is currently dangerous and far too congested. The improvements will allow much safer and easier travel across our new city.
"I have been campaigning for road improvements in Southend since before I was elected, and have lobbied ministers hard for recognition that the A13 needs upgrading. I am delighted that this will now be happening!
However, the work will need to be undertaken carefully, ensuring the least possible disruption, and I look forward to seeing the plans for carrying out the work as soon as possible.”
