Hampshire: M27 junction upgrade will boost local economy
A £13 million contribution for a project to upgrade junction 9 of the M27 between Portsmouth and Southampton has been announced, as part of a government programme to boost new homes and jobs across the country.
The scheme, costing £19.9m overall, will deliver a comprehensive package of improvements to the junction and the immediate local road network. It will support up to 3,500 homes and up to 250 jobs in the Solent area, particularly substantial development site at North Whiteley. It will be the first project in the South East to benefit from Highways England’s Growth and Housing fund – a special budget ring-fenced for road improvements needed for planned major developments.
The Solent scheme is part of a £45.5m nationwide package that is set to help unlock the development of more than 6,000 jobs and nearly 10,000 homes in Leicestershire and the South East.
Highways England’s £100m Growth and Housing Fund was set up as part of the government’s £15 billion investment in roads and provides financial contributions towards the cost of road improvements that are needed for new developments, which promise timely delivery of homes and jobs.
Highways England chief executive Jim O’Sullivan said: “England’s strategic roads are vital for economic success, connecting businesses, people and supporting the government’s agenda of employment and growth. All of these improvements and future upcoming announcements will ultimately ensure England’s major roads continue to make a valuable contribution to the prosperity of our country.”
The £220m Congestion Relief Fund announced during the Autumn Statement has also played its part in underpinning economic growth, by providing £3m additional funding to the M27, junction 9 scheme. This additional funding will help to tackle congestion in the local area and improve connectivity.
Transport secretary Chris Grayling said: “The Whiteley Way junction upgrade is part of our record investment in infrastructure across the country to improve journeys for motorists. It will cut congestion on the M27, help unlock thousands of much-needed houses, and boost Hampshire’s economy.”
