A14 upgrade announcement brings early festive cheer for logistics

Monday 09 December 2019

Following the announcement that Highways England has today (9 December 2019) opened the Huntingdon Southern Bypass one year ahead of schedule, Natalie Chapman, Head of East of England, South of England and Urban Policy at FTA, comments:

“Speaking on behalf of the UK logistics industry, FTA is thrilled Highways England has opened the Huntingdon Southern Bypass a year ahead of schedule; a true testament to what can be achieved when the government prioritises the needs of logistics businesses and the strategic road network. Our members rely on effective and efficient road networks to keep goods moving across the UK, but the A14 Cambridge to Huntingdon – a vital link connecting the East Coast ports in East Anglia with the Midlands and the rest of England – has long been plagued by congestion and safety issues. The bypass, which forms part of the £1.5 billion A14 upgrade, will help to boost connectivity, reliability and journey safety for commercial vehicle operators and private road users alike.  

“The early launch of this project showcases the best in British ingenuity, hard work and efficiency; FTA and its members look forward to the rest of the scheme opening later next year”.

Efficient logistics is vital to keep Britain trading, directly having an impact on more than seven million people employed in the making, selling and moving of goods.  With Brexit, new technology and other disruptive forces driving change in the way goods move across borders and through the supply chain, logistics has never been more important to UK plc.  A champion and challenger, FTA speaks to government with one voice on behalf of the whole sector, with members from the road, rail, sea and air industries, as well as the buyers of freight services such as retailers and manufacturers.