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. However, although infrastructure improvements will represent massive progress for our area, it is vital that we ensure that a proper strategic plan is put in place to ensure they do not come at the detriment of local communities and our rural way of life.

As part of my ongoing work with the South of the A47 Taskforce that I helped convene a couple of years ago to look at likely rat-running issues that would be worsened in this beautiful corner of Mid Norfolk by the A47 dualling and Western Link construction, I was delighted to join a meeting hosted by NCC Highways – which allowed member Parishes to see further traffic modelling that has been carried out and begin to assess which traffic mitigation methods may be best for them and the wider area (this must be looked at in the round and must not be a case of moving one area’s rat-running problems to another!)

More work lies ahead, but the conversations continue to be positive, and I am firmly committed to supporting the local communities concerned on this issue, as well as the associated matter of local access (which I know is hugely important to so many!)

To read more about my work on this campaign, please click here