A421 Improvements M1(J13) to Milton Keynes

The Government’s London to South Midlands Multi-Modal Study recommended that a number of road schemes should be implemented, including widening of the Motorway M1 as far north as Junction 13, improving the A421 east of the M1 to Bedford, and improving the A421 west of the M1 into Milton Keynes. Since the A421 west of the M1 is a local road, the local authorities were invited to bring forward proposals for this section.

The Highways Agency is currently progressing the M1 widening and the A421 improvements M1 to Bedford schemes. Following adoption of the Milton Keynes and South Midlands Sub-Regional Strategy, Milton Keynes Council, the Milton Keynes Partnership and Bedfordshire have been investigating options for upgrading the A421 into Milton Keynes.

The results of two public exhibitions held in June 2005 have indicated an overwhelming preference for improving the existing route to dual carriageway standard and improving junctions, with 94% of respondents choosing this option over a new route to the south of the existing road. Technical evaluation also indicates that widening the existing road is the preferred option and worthwhile. Total costs are expected to be around £33 million.

We therefore developed the scheme and submitted a major scheme bid to Government. This bid was recently deferred by Government and both authorities are now continuing to peruse funding avenues through Government and alternative sources.