Case for converting A1M into ‘Yorkshire Bypass’ – The Yorkshire Post says

Economic because the widening of the existing dual carriageway between Doncaster and Darrington would cut delays – and increase capacity – in an area where significant economic growth and investment is anticipated.

Environmental because this scheme, much touted by Ministers, would, potentially, reduce the amount of traffic using the heavily congested M1 between Sheffield and Leeds, thereby reducing the threat from pollution.

Yet, while the creation of the so-called ‘Yorkshire Bypass’ – and other schemes for that matter – hinge on the state of the national economy after the Covid-19 pandemic, they should be seen as an investment in the country’s future success and prosperity of all.

It would mean that the A1M is up to motorway standard throughout Yorkshire from the M18 to Scotch Corner in the north of the county and where, significantly, Rishi Sunak, the Chancellor, is the MP.

It would complement the plan – announced by transport Secretary Grant Shapps just last month – to dual the A66 from Scotch Corner to Penrith to provide a link across the North to assist freight vehicles in particular.

And it would signal that the Government remains committed to the pre-election promises that it made about the Northern Powerhouse and wider ‘levelling up’ agenda.

After all, the North will only be able to deliver its economic potential if it has the transport infrastructure – both road and rail – to match its ambition.

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