A DIRECTION of travel on the future upgrading of the A75 Gretna to Stranraer road could be revealed soon.
That was the clear indication from Prime Minister Boris Johnson when he responded to a question in the House of Commons on Wednesday.
Carlisle MP John Stevenson said: “There is more that unites us than divides us is very true of the UK. However, improved connectivity is vital to ensuring we remain united. The recent interim Union Connectivity Review (UCR) has suggested improvements.”
And he asked: “If this is really going to happen then improvements must be made to the A75, the A69 and the extension of the Borders Railway. Does the PM support such investment and what is the timescale”?
In his response, Mr Johnson pointed to the forthcoming publication of the UCR, which is expected in the late summer.
The Prime Minister said: “I think he (Mr Stevenson) will not have to wait too long (for) final recommendations from Sir Peter Hendy about the A75 and other great features of Union connectivity, which the Government hopes to support.
“But we have already agreed £5m from the UK and Scottish Governments to support the extension of the Edinburgh – Tweedbank Borders Railway to Carlisle.”
Afterwards, Scottish Secretary and Dumfries and Galloway MP Alister Jack welcomed the Mr Johnson’s comments.
He said: “It is clear the PM considers the A75 of strategic importance to the entire UK in streamlining transport connections across the four nations but it is important to carefully examine the wider picture.
“I’m looking forward to reading the conclusions of Sir Peter and his expert team as their independent assessment will be crucial in prioritising the infrastructure which will help strengthen and take the UK forward for generations to come.”
