MP urges Reeves to back upgrades to East-West route

The A50 and A500 corridor links Stoke and Derby together

A Staffordshire MP has urged Chancellor Rachel Reeves to back upgrades to a busy East to West Midlands route ahead of the government's spending review.

Burton and Uttoxeter MP Jacob Collier said the A50 and A500 corridor between Stoke and Derby needed "urgent" investment to support the Midlands economy, and major employers like JCB, Toyota and Rolls-Royce.

Collier stated that the road currently faced "severe congestion at key pinch points", particularly in Staffordshire and Uttoxeter, and decisions around upgrades were needed.

"I will continue to push for these essential upgrades to be made," he said. "For our local economy, for local employment opportunities, and for the safety of Uttoxeter residents."

Transport organisation Midlands Connect said that upgrades would enhance the current transport links and connectivity.

Improvements could create around £12bn in economic growth over the next 60 years, according to its report with Fifty500 Midlands Growth Corridor Commission.

"The potential here is vast: 39,000 new jobs, 67,000 homes, and a thriving hub for green transport technology," Collier said.

He added that the A50 and A500 must become a "true catalyst" for economic growth.