Bypass funding delayed two years

Work on the Norwich northern bypass will begin in 2012 if funding of nearly £80m is confirmed this month.

The East of England Regional Assembly (EERA) is considering funding of £3.2m in 2012/13, £26.8m in 2013/14, £48.7m in 2014/15 and £1m in 2015/16.

If confirmed by EERA at its meeting on 30 January this will be the region's recommendation to Government.

Funding will become available two years later than indicated by earlier estimates, Norfolk County Council said.

The earliest start date for preliminary site clearance works would be autumn 2012.

Congestion problems

Adrian Gunson, cabinet member for planning and transportation, said: "This recommendation represents strong regional support for the most important transport project in Norfolk since the A47 Norwich Southern Bypass.

"The delay may seem disappointing, but almost £80m is a large portion of the funds available to the region.

"The later start will increase the costs by about £11m to an estimated £127m."

The county council regards the road as key to solving existing access and growing congestion problems caused by traffic being forced through Norwich or on to unsuitable residential and minor roads on the city fringe.

It will also provide the "elbow room" for measures in Norwich to support public transport, walking and cycling.