For a number of years we have been working to secure a new bridge in Walton to reduce congestion and noise pollution for local residents. I am delighted that this has now finally been secured and work is due to begin this September, subject to final planning approval.
The current single lane Bailey bridge will remain in place but will be transformed for pedestrians only, creating a safe space for people to walk and cycle. With the development of the Drakelow village, the new bridge will allow vehicles to by-pass Walton and Catton, will help with traffic management whilst the new village is being built and be an ongoing boon to local residents in the area.
With the new village, we recognise the importance of having essential facilities. As part of the planning permission Countryside developers have agreed to create a new primary school, medical facilities and play areas. I welcome this investment, not only making sure residents have the local facilities they need but also attracting investment into the area and creating good skilled jobs. I continue to have ongoing conversations with Derbyshire and Staffordshire Clinical Commissioning Groups to secure the new, permanent and stable medical facilities local residents need.
Heather Wheeler MP for South Derbyshire said, “Delivering the by-pass is a priority and one I have been working towards with the Ministry of Housing, Community and Local Government, the Local Enterprise Partnerships and the CCG’s. The very large amount of Government funding (over £7m) to make the building of the bridge and affordable homes viable has been a hard won fight and I will keep on fighting to make sure the promises given by the Developers are met.
I welcome the news the bridge is to be built at last and know the benefits it will bring to local residents and the surrounding area. As well as reducing congestion and improving safety for both pedestrians and vehicles, it will also benefit the environment with less air and noise pollution”.
