Declares that the decision to build a new crossing over Lake Lothing in Lowestoft is agreed with all possible speed; further that there is significant local support for a new crossing; and further that the new crossing would positively impact upon the local economy in Lowestoft and the surrounding area.
The petitioners therefore request that the House of Commons urges the Government to confirm funding for the project in order for construction to begin as soon as possible and be completed by 2020.
And the petitioners remain, etc.—[Presented by Peter Aldous, Official Report, 08 March 2016; Vol. 607, c. 247.]
[P001676]
Observations from the Minister of State, Department for Transport (Robert Goodwill):
The Chancellor confirmed funding at the spring Budget of £73.4 million for the third crossing at Lake Lothing in Lowestoft. This represents 80% of the estimated scheme cost of £91.7 million, with Suffolk County Council taking responsibility for meeting the remaining 20% and any increases in costs beyond that. Funding for the scheme will come from the £475 million Large Local Major schemes fund that was included in the spending review 2015. This funding is part of the Local Growth Fund.
Now that funding for the scheme has been agreed Suffolk County Council can commence with the required statutory processes and the Department for Transport expects Suffolk County Council to further develop the business case for the project. Funding is subject to final business case sign off before construction can begin.
It is the responsibility of Suffolk County Council, as scheme sponsors, to complete the delivery of the scheme to the desired timescales.