A local business leader thinks City Deal which is designed to give greater independence to local governments would help on transport links to boost jobs and economic growth.
Bournemouth, Poole and Christchurch have very busy business traffic and shoppers and visitors all need to get around the area. The Bournemouth and Poole City Region Deal which has been approved by government on February 19, identifies major opportunities at Bournemouth Airport and the Port of Poole.
“The whole Three Town Travel initiative linked with City Deal and Dorset LEP is absolutely essential to plan for the future.” said Nigel Hedges, president of Bournemouth Chamber of Trade and Commerce.
He added, “To help local businesses on the smallest level, along with having buses and even train connections and proper road routes that allow people to get to the port of Poole, allow 40 ton articulated lorries to get to the airport, for people not to miss their planes.”
Mr Hedges also pointed out that the roads have no major development or infrastructure expansion in 40 years. Dorset has no motor ways. Most roads in Bournemouth and Poole are A roads and country lanes.
The A338, the main artery from Ringwood is worn out. The previous government removed 24 million pound budget to rebuild that road. Although crossroads link up different areas, single lane roads are not good enough to cope with level of traffic, he thinks.
“By removing red tape by national government would allow our businesses to expand around our two ports in the East of the County. What the City Deal is all about is stop saying no but say from a national government’s level how can we help you in your area”, Mr Hedges added.
Image from das sabrinchen
