Study shows Oxford to Cambridge Expressway improvements could boost the economy

Published: 18 August 2016
By Chris Haycock

A new study setting out the case to improve connections between Oxford, Milton Keynes and Cambridge was published by the Department for Transport today, 18 August 2016.

The Oxford to Cambridge expressway strategic study was launched by the government in autumn 2015, one of a number of studies aimed at addressing some of the biggest challenges facing the road network in the UK.

Today’s report has found that a new link will improve journey times, up to 30 minutes along the length of the route, and support economic growth in the towns and cities on the Expressway.

The new road would benefit commuters and businesses in Cambridge, Oxford and Milton Keynes – some of the fastest growing areas in the UK - and have a wider positive impact on Britain’s economy.

Transport Minister John Hayes said:

I want people up and down Britain to benefit from quicker, more reliable journeys.

Our cities and towns are the lifeblood of our economy and they, as well as our rural communities, need strong connections to thrive.

We are already spending £15 billion on the biggest upgrade to the road network for generations.

The improved network could also benefit local communities by improving access to amenities, cutting congestion in built up areas and enabling the delivery of new homes.

The study is part of the government’s next phase of road improvements, which will get underway from 2020. The current Road Investment Strategy period covers 2015 to 2020.

Further proposals on the route of the expressway will now be developed.

Two further reports – the Trans-Pennine tunnel and the A1 east of England – are also published today. Studies into the M25 south west quadrant, the Manchester north west quadrant and the Northern Trans Pennine are also underway.

Final reports of all 6 will be completed in the next 6 months and will inform the development of the government’s second Road Investment Strategy.