THE region's top transport decision makers have backed recommendations to push for urgent dualling of the A11 between Barton Mills and Thetford to start in two years.

Will Clarke

THE region's top transport decision makers have backed recommendations to push for urgent dualling of the A11 between Barton Mills and Thetford to start in two years.

The stretch of the major road is the only section which is still single carriageway but the latest moves could mean construction could be underway as early as 2010 if it receives crucial Government funding.

The notorious bottleneck has been blamed for heavy traffic and accidents and it is believed the dualling project will give the eastern region a significant economic boost

It is hoped today's recommendation by the East of England Regional Assembly (EERA) transport planning panel will be the economic and road safety boost campaigners have been fighting for.

Eddie Alcock, a Suffolk county councillor who represents the county on the panel, said it had decided to make the widening of the stretch a priority.

“There is now no reason why work on the A11 shouldn't start before 2010/11,” he said. “Today's proposal is fully supported by Suffolk as an economically important route. It doesn't mean it is certain but I am very confident.”

The next steps will involve the Highways Agency, which needs to complete a timetable for dualling. The scheme also needs to be submitted for final approval to Ruth Kelly, the Secretary of State for Transport.