Boost for transport in South East

Plans to spend £720m on road schemes across the South East over the next three years have been announced by the Department for Transport.

The money will provide full funding for the Fast-track bus scheme in north Kent, and will provisionally pay for the widening of the A228.

It will also benefit Walton Bridge in Surrey, replacing the two temporary bridges currently in use.

Transport secretary Alistair Darling said roads would be better and safer.

He said public transport would also be "a more attractive and reliable alternative to the car".

"Today's announcement demonstrates the government's continuing commitment to investing in local transport in the South East," he added.