Oral Answers to Questions

Ian Levy Excerpts

Thursday 14th December 2023 Commons Chamber

[Anthony Browne]

I thank the hon. Gentleman for what I am going to call his warm words—it is Christmas, a time to forgive and forget. The clean maritime plan is being refreshed and we will publish it as soon as possible. We are taking in and analysing a very wide range of evidence from a wide range of different people. The Government are committed to the whole “Maritime 2050” plan, and we are investing over £200 million in the UK SHORE programme to help fund research and development to make shipping decarbonise.

[Ian Levy (Blyth Valley) (Con)]

9. What steps he is taking to increase transport connectivity between cities in the north of England.

[The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Transport (Guy Opperman)]

Aside from the £1 billion investment in Network North, my hon. Friend will be aware that the single biggest connectivity project in his community is the Northumberland line, a groundbreaking railway line that will connect Blyth and the surrounding cities to Newcastle.

[Ian Levy]

I am delighted consultation has now taken place regarding a relief road for Blyth, which is badly needed. As a result of the proposed plans, which could see the closure of an existing road and the rerouting of residents along a new road, many residents of Cramlington could see their journey times increase. Keeping the existing road open would address that, as well as save money. Will my hon. Friend agree to look at that again and see whether it could be achieved?

[Guy Opperman]

I am very happy to meet my hon. Friend and Northumberland County Council, post the consultation.