A11 technology corridor boost for Norfolk and Suffolk to be launched in May
Busy route...The dual A11 cariageway at Red Lodge before traffic is narrowed to a single carriageway at the Barton Mills roundabout.Photograph: KEITH MINDHAMSTORY BY MARTIN BARSBY, BURY. - Credit: Archant
An ambitious scheme to create a technology corridor along the A11 is set to be officially launched in May, it has been announced.
Yesterday councillors were given an update on the A11 Technology Corridor project which aims to create 10,000 new jobs, attract £905m of private investment and see up to 20,000 homes built between Norwich and Newmarket by focussing on 11 key areas along the route by 2031.
A meeting of South Norfolk Council's growth and communities committee heard the next stage will see a launch in May, which will focus on branding the project and engaging with key stake holders.
The launch date was revealed by Nina Cunningham, funding manager, as she gave an update on a feasibility study looking at taking advantage of a fully dualled A11.
She said: 'It not just about the road (the A11). It is the zone of influence around it. It is not just a gain for south Norfolk.
'It is not risk free but we feel the benefits far outweigh the risk.'
Councillors heard the corridor could be further boosted by creating a working link with Cambridge to draw in more investment and increase its prestige internationally.
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Members agreed to endorse the feasibility study and recommended council leaders take forward the next phase of work to deliver the project.
The All Growth Corridor Feasibility Study was ordered by South Norfolk Council, Breckland Council and Forest Heath District Council and funding for the project will be sought from New Anglia Growth Deal, the New Anglia and Greater Cambridge and Peterborough LEPS and European funds.
Have you got a technology business story? Contact business editor Mark Shields at mark.shields@archant.co.uk
