A campaign for dualling the whole of the A47 in Cambridgeshire has been labelled as “essential to improving safety” by Mayor James Palmer.

Mayor Palmer met with the A47 Alliance chairman and Norfolk councillor Martin Wilby today (October 17) to discuss progress for full dualling of the road from the A1 west of Peterborough through to Lowestoft.

The alliance brings together local authorities, business groups and other organisations across county borders.

Mayor Palmer said: “Highways England has already committed to dualling the small section between Wansford and Sutton, so the aim is to see the whole of the A47 in Cambridgeshire as dual carriageway.

“Plans are progressing to dual the whole of the road in Cambridgeshire between the A16 junction east of Peterborough and Walton Highway.

“I’ve said before that upgrading this route is essential to the economy of the East as a whole and will also improve safety on what is a very dangerous road.

“I will keep you updated.”

Fenland District Councillor Ginny Bucknor, commenting on Mayor Palmer’s post, added: “Excellent James as, so far, Cambridgeshire County Councillors have only EVER discussed “pinch points” with cabinet ministers and others around Wisbech/Thorney.”

The 1.6-mile stretch - between the villages of Wansford and Sutton west of Peterborough - is near where the A47 meets the A1.

The work is expected to cost between £50m and £100m, and the new road open by the spring of 2021.

The entire scheme is set to improve journey times, reduce collisions and reduce congestion.

Find out more about the A47 Alliance at http://www.a47alliance.co.uk/