Transport investment bid boosted

A campaign to attract investment in Cumbria's transport infrastructure has been boosted by a report.

The study, by an independent transport consultant, recommends improvements to the A590, A595 and the A66.

Commercial flights from Carlisle Airport and increased rail freight capacity are also suggested.

The new developments are aimed at allowing businesses and communities to flourish, and to attract jobs and investment to the county.

'Serious investment'

The report, produced by Mouchel Parkman, was jointly commissioned by the North West Development Agency (NWDA) and the North West Regional Assembly.

Cumbria County Council has broadly backed its conclusions, and sent additional comments to the NWDA.

Kevan Wilkinson, cabinet portfolio holder for transport, said: "We have been telling government for a long time that Cumbria, and particularly the West Coast, needs serious investment in its transport infrastructure if the county is to flourish.

"This report by independent consultants backs up what we have been saying and hopefully it will help us to get Cumbria's transport needs to the top of the agenda at a regional and national level."