The Libdems are rallying support for a petition to dual the York Outer Ring Road, addressing traffic woes faced by local residents.
City of York: Councillors are gearing up to discuss funding for the Outer Ring Road project this Tuesday. They’re looking at the budget for 2025/2026, but there are concerns that the project might get scaled back.
A council report suggests that there’s a significant funding gap that might not be closed, which could mean cutting back on the project’s scope.
Cllr Kate Ravilious, who speaks on transport issues, emphasized that dualling parts of the A1237 is still a top priority. However, with rising costs due to inflation, a review is necessary.
She mentioned that a full update on the project’s revisions and options will be available in the spring.
Meanwhile, York and North Yorkshire Mayor David Skaith is committed to collaborating with the council. A Government spokesperson noted that they’re investing £25 million into the project.
Liberal Democrat Councillor Andrew Hollyer, representing Haxby and Wigginton, pointed out that residents in north York are facing constant delays due to traffic jams on the northern outer ring road.
He urged residents to support their petition, calling on the UK Government, the Labour Mayor, the Labour MP for York Outer, and the Labour-run Council to reconsider their plans regarding the A1237 dualling.
Hollyer also suggested that the Mayor could use part of the £379 million from the cancellation of HS2 to help cover any funding shortfalls.
Residents interested in supporting the cause can sign the petition at www.bit.ly/justdualit.
