Prime Minister Keir Starmer has cancelled two major road schemes in the East Midlands, redirecting £700 million from the Department for Transport's roads budget to defence spending. The decision halts the A38 Derby Junctions upgrade and the A46 Newark Bypass project, both of which were yet to enter contract.
Projects Cancelled
The A38 Derby Junctions scheme involved upgrading roundabouts at Kingsway, Markeaton, and Little Eaton near Derby city centre. National Highways had stated the upgrades would reduce congestion, improve journey reliability between Birmingham, Derby, and the M1, and enhance safety for all road users. Funding was confirmed in August after a government spending review.
The A46 Newark Bypass project aimed to widen 6.5km of single carriageway to dual carriageway between Farndon and Winthorpe roundabouts near Newark-on-Trent. The scheme was expected to reduce collisions, ease congestion, and boost business productivity and economic growth. Construction firm Skanska confirmed the cancellation of its £297 million contract earlier this week.
Political Backlash
East Midlands Mayor Claire Ward slammed the move as “completely unacceptable,” highlighting the impact on local drivers and the regional economy. The Treasury stated: “DfT will provide savings of up to £700m from its roads funding. The Department will consult on reductions to the third Road Investment Strategy (RIS3) - including the potential cancellation of the A38 Derby Junctions and A46 Newark Bypass schemes, both of which are yet to enter contract and not as far along as other road schemes. There will be stakeholder consultations before any final decision is taken.”
Impact on Drivers
The cancellation affects drivers in the East Midlands, who were promised reduced congestion and improved safety. The A38 Derby Junctions scheme was expected to facilitate regional development and growth in Derby, while the A46 Newark Bypass would have increased capacity and reduced delays. The redirection of funds to defence comes as part of broader government efforts to bolster military spending.
