Allerdale is to receive a funding boost for one of its most important roads-the A595 – after the Government allocated the Cumbria Local Enterprise Partnership (CLEP) £10.5m, £5m of which will go towards this project.

The schemes are to receive investment from the ‘Getting Building Fund’ to create new jobs and deliver improved connectivity in the area.

The scheme will enable junction enhancements at Bothel/Torpenhow, as well as preliminary works to enable a larger project that will deliver climbing lanes and broader route alignment.

Keith Little, cabinet member for Highways and Transport at Cumbria County Council, said: “Improvements to the A595 within the vicinity of Bothel will not only improve journey times and help boost the county’s economy but also create a safer and more resilient road network.

“Last year the County Council submitted a business case to Government for delivery funding for a series of improvements including climbing lanes to the south west of Bothel, improved alignment and junction improvements; a decision on this funding is awaited.

“The additional Getting Building Fund funding is a real boost; helping to move things forward with the delivery of an improvement at the Greyhound/Torpenhow junction together with preliminary works for the larger scheme, which of course will continue to develop in consultation with the local community.

“Alongside this, the council is developing a proposal to introduce a 50mph speed limit past Bothel with consultation on this to take place during the autumn.”