A decision on plans to dual the A1 in Northumberland has been delayed beyond the government's twice-extended deadline of 5 December. The Planning Inspectorate confirmed that the Secretary of State is still considering the proposals.
Liberal Democrat councillor Isabel Hunter, representing Berwick West with Ord, expressed disappointment over the continued delay. She urged the government to provide clarity, stating: "Just let us know, just put us out of our misery."
The project would dual eight miles of the A1 between Morpeth and Felton, and a further five miles between Alnwick and Ellingham. Campaigners have long argued that the dualling is essential for rural residents who rely on the A1 as their primary travel route.
Ms Hunter highlighted safety concerns, noting that the road is used by slow farm vehicles, leading to risky overtaking and accidents. She added: "It's innocent people that get hurt."
Hopes for the project were raised under Liz Truss's brief premiership, when Berwick MP Anne Marie Trevelyan became Transport Secretary and the mini-budget included the A1 dualling among priority infrastructure projects. The Department for Transport has been approached for comment.
