Transport Minister Mike Penning is in Norfolk today to discuss the dualling of the Acle straight and other important local issues.

The Government minister discussed dualling work with Graham Plant, Norfolk County Council's cabinet member for Planning and Transportation.

Mr Penning said he is aware of the safety issues surrounding the road and is looking at how bureaucracy can be removed from the issue.

'We are investigating the bridge and the water ditches,' he said. 'I'm very conscious of safety and there are issues with the dykes.

'It does appear that there's a problem that could be addressed.'

He toured Great Yarmouth and received a petition to save a local coastguard service from Paul Rice, Norfolk County Councillor for Smallburgh.

He also discussed the outer harbour and the town's economic future.

'It's an exciting time for the port,' said Mr Penning. 'Offshore is going to be a major thing for many of our ports.'

Mr Penning was hosted by Great Yarmouth MP Brandon Lewis for the day, and said he was already familiar with the town.

'I've been here every year since I was four and I'm 54 now,' he said. 'If you want to find out what's happening in a community you come out to see it.'

Transport Minister Mike Penning is Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for roads, freight and maritime.