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Last Updated: Wednesday, 7 July, 2004, 05:53 GMT 06:53 UK
Minister hears case for dual A1
A long-running debate into the future of the A1 north of Newcastle continues with the visit to the region of Transport Minister David Jamieson.

Northumberland County Council officials welcomed the visit on Wednesday which was set to include a meeting with Berwick MP Alan Beith.

Mr Beith plans to drive up the Al with the minister in an effort to illustrate the problems on the road.

Campaigners want the road to be dualled to reduce road-related deaths.

It is ridiculous that in 2004, a main route between Edinburgh and London is limited to a single carriageway
Cllr Mick Scullion
The Department of Transport had agreed to dualling a section of the road between Morpeth and Felton and sections between Alnwick and Berwick during the next decade.

But the government ruled there was not a strong enough case for a full dual carriageway.

Northumberland County Council's Executive Member for Highways Mick Scullion said: "Up until now much of the debate has focused on safety.

"While this is important, there are now economic arguments that will help build an even stronger case to the government.

"We have said before that good road links are vital for a thriving North East and Scottish economy.

"The Scottish Executive sees the A1 as vital in establishing good links between Scotland and the rest of the UK.

"This adds more weight to what we have campaigned for. It is ridiculous that in 2004, a main route between Edinburgh and London is limited to a single carriageway."



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SEE ALSO:
Safety measures for A1 blackspot
15 Feb 04  |  North Yorkshire
Future of A1 under scrutiny
29 Oct 03  |  West Yorkshire
A1 'devastated' after stampede deaths
19 Mar 01  |  Entertainment


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