Improving connectivity in our part of the world was one of my first pledges when I began campaigning to be the MP for Mid Norfolk back in 2007.

We know only too well that there has been a historic lack of investment in Norfolk and the East and, while there has been a lot of positive progress in recent years (the full dualling of the A11 and increasing broadband speeds to name just two examples), there remains so much more that needs to be done.

I am immensely proud of the part I played in helping the A47 Alliance secure the £300million required for the first round of A47 dualling improvements. However, although we must get the design and detail correct, it has taken far too long for the works to commence. We need this improvement package as soon as possible if we are to boost safety on our roads and ensure Norfolk has the transport network it needs to unlock its full economic potential.

That’s why I am so pleased to hear that Highways England are to begin their archaeological trial trenching for the key North Tuddenham-Easton project at the beginning of June. This is a vital step forwards – and one that I am assured will be carried out safely and in accordance with all of the current guidelines on social distancing and protective measures.

It remains imperative however that, while this progress is being made, we also ensure that any potential rat-running through the villages south of the key strategic Wood Lane/Berry’s Lane junction at Honingham is minimised. This much needed progress must not come at the cost of our rural way of life here in Mid Norfolk, and at the gross detriment of the communities that live between Honingham and Wymondham.

That’s why I also remain firmly committed to working with the local Taskforce, Highways England, Norfolk County Council and others to not only try and ensure the junction’s layout and design is pulled together correctly, but also to make sure a proper mitigation package is developed to protect this rural communities. I hope to be able to report more on that in the not too distant future.