Ministers give go-ahead for A5-M1 link

The bypass would be a 2.9-mile dual carriageway, running east from the A5 north of Dunstable to link to the M1 at a new junction, 11A.

The MP said a start on the project was now dependant upon “the developers contributing £45 million and Central Bedfordshire Council £5 million”.

Work is due to begin in 2014 after power lines have been moved next summer.

Mr Selous said: “This is wonderful news for the whole of South West Bedfordshire. Traffic jams will be greatly reduced in Dunstable and Houghton Regis and villages like Totternhoe, Kensworth and Toddington will see much less through traffic. “Leighton Buzzard and Linslade will get fast direct access to the M1 and the whole motorway network, which will help business growth in the town and Aylesbury will also benefit.

“I called for the bypass to be built in my maiden speech in 2001 and shortly afterwards presented a 25,000 signature petition to Parliament requesting the road be built.

“Alistair Darling announced the road would be built on July 9, 2003 and the delay since then has been appalling and has held back economic growth and job creation.

“I pay tribute to Central Bedfordshire Council for negotiating the developer contribution, without which the road would not be built.

“I believe that South West Bedfordshire will now realise its full potential in creating jobs and wealth.“

See next week’s Dunstable Gazette for more reaction.