Memorandum from Jill Elson

 

 

It is important for the economy of the South West to improve the transport links both road and rail.

 

The M5 from Bristol stops at Exeter when it then changes into a dual carriageway A38. This means that the last 24 hour services are at Exeter. These services seem to be one of the busiest on the motorway network and as all traffic has to use the Sandygate roundabout it causes congestion.

The A38 from Exeter to Cornwall has NO 24 hour services they all open at 7am and close at 10pm. This hinders delivery of goods and services. Overnight driving has to stop at Exeter. this causes problems for those who have to make deliveries before 8am and after 4pm in several Towns by regulations.

 

Many travelling to Heathrow or London use the M5 onto M4 route due to services being available. This means the majority of coaches or taxis use this route as do many holiday makers. This causes major congestion at the Bristol junctions.

 

The A303 needs to be dualled to give an alternative route to London. It needs 24 hour services. This was successful on the A30 through Dartmoor an environmentally sensitive route.

 

The rail link between Exeter and London needs considerable improvement to encourage travellers to use it. It is not faster than road. It also needs competitive prices. It is cheaper from Leeds to London than Exeter to London.

 

It is difficult to attend meetings in London or Birmingham by 10am due to the rail service.

 

Exeter Airport is a major player in the economy of the far South West and its road links need improving.