PLANS to build new slip roads onto the A120 at Braintree has been given a £4.95 million boost by government funding.

The Department for Transport announced a £345.3 million funding package to improve roads and public transport across the country today.

Among the 76 projects is £4.95 million for two new slip roads onto the A120 at Millenium Way in Braintree.

There is also £4.09 million for extra lanes and signals to A120 roundabout to west of M11 junction 8 to improve flow.

Transport Secretary Chris Grayling said: “This government is taking the big decisions for Britain’s future and investing a record £23 billion on our roads to increase capacity and improve journeys.

“These schemes will provide much needed upgrades to essential local roads up and down the country, cutting congestion, improving safety and shortening journey times for drivers.

“They will also help boost regional economic growth by unlocking jobs and supporting vital new housing development.”

Braintree MP James Cleverly said on Facebook: “I'm really pleased that the government has agreed a £5 million investment in the A120 at the SE of Braintree.

“This is part of the £350 million investment in local road improvements. The money will be supplemented by funds from Essex County Council & Braintree District Council.

“I will still push for the major investment in the A120 that I have been campaigning for since I was first elected but this is a good step in the right direction.”

£4.95 million has also been pledged towards new slip roads linking the A120 to Millennium Way giving much-needed relief to the notorious pinch-point at Galleys Corner.

The scheme will also provide better access to Freeport Shopping Village.

It is being part funded by Braintree District Council, Highways England and Essex County Council.

Kevin Bentley, Deputy Leader for Essex County Council, said: “This funding will give a huge boost to regional economic growth along what are key routes for so many people who travel in and around Essex.

“Investment in roads infrastructure is vital to regional economic growth and I am delighted the Government is recognising the importance of investing in Essex by contributing this funding to help make these essential upgrades a reality.

“This funding comes just a week after Essex County Council was named as Transport Local Authority of the Year in the National Transport Awards. It is great to see our hard work behind the scenes and with partners to build a strong case for improvements to key routes across Essex is being recognised and is resulting in clear benefits for our residents, businesses and visitors to the county.

“This funding will change the lives of thousands of people not only in Essex, but across the country.”

Lynette Bowers-Flint, Cabinet Member for Planning and Housing at Braintree District Council, said: “We’re delighted that the Department for Transport is supporting the Millennium Slip roads project with almost £5m of funding. The close partnership between us, Highways England and Essex County Council has been critical in this successful funding bid and will continue throughout the scheme design and construction.

“The project will address capacity issues affecting the road network around Braintree now and in the future and provide much needed congestion relief and free up capacity at Galleys Corner.” 

Christian Brodie, Chairman of SELEP, said “SELEP warmly welcomes the £18m of investment in schemes across Essex, Southend and Kent. These schemes, endorsed and championed by SELEP, will support local economic growth by reducing congestion and improving business efficiency.”