The A47 is a major transport artery into, and across, our great county. It has a crucial role to play if we are to unlock our region’s economic potential – delivering thousands of jobs, as well as the growth and prosperity needed, to help us ‘Build Back Better’ and ‘Level Up’. 

That’s why, with the North Tuddenham-Easton A47 dualling being held up by Dr Andrew Boswell’s legal case and ongoing disruption caused by flooding, I took the opportunity to meet with National Highways officials again today to discuss a number of key issues for my constituents.

A47 Flooding

The A47 Flooding between Honingham and Easton is currently due to the recent torrential rain filling the ditch with debris, despite regular dredging and pumping.

I have raised these issues extensively to date, but following my latest representations, National Highways have confirmed they will build settlement pits to hold water back, reducing the pressure on the rest of the infrastructure.

However, the real solution is dualling the road — so that it will then run higher, with a modern and fit for purpose drainage system, which will also benefit the existing road.

Localised Road Flooding

I also raised the flooding we have seen surrounding Dereham, such as at the old A47 near Dereham Cemetery, as well as in Attleborough.

It’s important the team at National Highways are aware of these issues — and I am picking them up with Norfolk County Council too (who are responsible for the drainage).

Accident Blackspots

We see too many tragic accidents along the A47 — not least at the Draytonhall Lane Junction in Scarning, at Little Fransham and at Necton.

Having already secured improvements to the Necton junction, I am very much aware there is more to do — especially given that the push for full dualling of this section is ongoing.

That is why I am pushing, alongside the A47 Alliance, for this part of the A47 to receive additional priority funding under the third round of the Roads Investment Strategy to make this vital route safer for all.

National Highways have shown a willingness to prioritise these vital improvements — which will improve safety for all until we can unlock funding for end-to-end dualling. Watch this space for developments…

A47 Dualling – Judgment

Tomorrow, we are expecting the final judgment from the Court of Appeal regarding the A47 dualling.

Having brought the then-Prime Minister to Mid Norfolk to secure the A47 funding, this has since dragged on for far too long.

The A47 dualling is vital — to reduce emissions from traffic jams, reduce journey times, and save lives.

Dr Boswell and the eco-warriors funding his campaign have delayed this happening — whilst local residents face accidents, delays, and flooding.

That is why I hope that tomorrow we will see the Court of Appeal finally give the green light for us to get on with this vital upgrade — and put an end to Dr Boswell & Co wasting taxpayer’s money and causing delays through unnecessary legal challenges.

Rest assured, I will continue to speak up for Mid Norfolk on these issues.

To find out more about my work ‘Making Our Roads Fit For The 21st Century’, please visit my campaign here