Public inquiry into Heysham M6 road link

Ruth Kelly, Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government, has announced that a public inquiry will be held to examine the proposed Heysham M6 link road. Lancaster County Council granted planning permission for the controversial scheme last year. The inquiry is expected to be held in late 2007. All parties involved will be able to put their arguments to an inspector, who will then advise the Secretary of State on the recommended course of action.

Councillor Ian Barker, Leader of Lancaster City Council said, ‘I welcome the news that there is to be a public inquiry. While I support, with some reservations, the County Council’s Plans for a Northern Link, I recognise that there important issues that need to be tested in public and an Inquiry is the best way to do this. It is my view that the district needs a Heysham M6 Link and that the Western Route is ruled out on environmental grounds. The Northern Link needs to be accompanied by sustainable transport measures such as improved public transport and park and ride measures. The County has made a start with the announcement of park and ride at Junction 34 but I would like to see more.’