A11 dualling could start by 2010

The Transport Secretary Ruth Kelly is being asked for the final go-ahead

The last section of dualling for the A11 could be brought forward.

Work on the stretch of road between Barton Mills, Suffolk, and Thetford, Norfolk was expected to start in 2011.

The project had originally been delayed but it was given high priority status by the East of England Regional Assembly (Eera) in 2006.

Under-spending on other projects means the Assembly will now ask the Transport Secretary Ruth Kelly for approval to start the work in 2010.

Christopher Fraser the MP for South West Norfolk said: "This is a great day for the future of Norfolk.

"At last the need for the A11 upgrade has been formally recognised and prioritisation agreed.

"The government cannot now ignore or defer the scheme any longer."

The Highways Agency needs to complete preparations before an exact timetable can be drawn up.