MPs to investigate M6 toll road
The Transport Select Committee has announced that it is to hold a one off evidence session on both the existing, and proposed M6 toll roads.
The UK’s first toll road opened in December 2003. It is 27 miles long and by-passes some of the most congested areas of the existing M6.
After the first 10 million vehicles have used the road, it will cost motorists £3 and HGVs £11.
The road has received mixed reaction, with some highlighting shorter journey times and less congestion, whilst others have argued that the solution to congestion should not be to build more roads.
Earlier in July, the Government announced they were considering plans for an extension to the toll road to link Birmingham to Manchester.
However, these plans were sharply criticised by environmental groups, who argue that traffic growth should be halted and roads should not be built or widened.
With the official consultation process lasting until September, the MPs will look at a number of key questions, including: “How effective has the existing M6 Toll road been in tackling congestion on the M6, on the new toll road and on the surrounding area?
“What impact has the M6 toll had on traffic levels?
“Is a new “Expressway” preferable to widening the existing road?
“Is this the most cost effective and environmentally effective solution?
“Have there been any unforeseen impacts of the existing M6 Toll?”
It is calling on all interested parties to submit evidence to its inquiry.
