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Liverpool Port Access: Rimrose Valley

07 September 2022

Lead MP

Peter Dowd
Bootle
Lab

Responding Minister

Karl McCartney

Tags

EconomyTaxationTransportLocal Government
Word Count: 7169
Other Contributors: 4

At a Glance

Peter Dowd raised concerns about liverpool port access: rimrose valley in Westminster Hall. A government minister responded.

Key Requests to Government:

The MP asks National Highways to produce a scheme that achieves the goals without harming Rimrose Valley and calls for investment in rail freight, active travel, and clean public transport. He urges exploration of sustainable solutions as outlined in the Sefton Council and Arup report.

How the Debate Unfolded

MPs spoke in turn to share their views and ask questions. Here's what each person said:

Lead Contributor

Bootle
Opened the debate
The proposed road through Rimrose Valley would damage the only significant area of green space in Bootle, affecting community cohesion and health. The valley offers a vital habitat for wildlife and is essential for physical and mental well-being. It also provides respite from pollution generated by port traffic on surrounding roads, with residents near the port having a life expectancy 12 years less than those just a mile away.

Government Response

Karl McCartney
Government Response
It is a pleasure to take part in this debate, particularly in the role of responding to points raised by colleagues. I thank Mike Kane for his kind words and comments. Transport links are crucial for productivity, innovation, and economic growth, which is why we have provided devolution deals to mayoral combined authorities to ensure transport connectivity maximises economic growth and supports thriving communities. Since 2010, more than £33 billion has been invested in transport infrastructure in the north, with a £96 billion integrated rail plan over the next 30 years focusing on inter-city connections and east-west links. The Government are also spending over £24 billion between 2020 and 2025 on our strategic road network, including the A5036 Princess Way linking the port of Liverpool to the motorway network. Solutions for improving the A5036 include a new road between M57 and M58 and the port of Liverpool, which aims to improve journey times, reliability, quality, safety, reduce noise and dust nuisances, and enhance environmental and amenity value. The current proposal includes full commitment to measures mitigating impacts through Rimrose Valley and enhancing the environmental and amenity value of the current park and open area of land north of the park. National Highways is committed to working with all stakeholders for the right result for the city region and the country. I urge Bootle MP Peter Dowd not to give up but to be prepared to compromise and negotiate, emphasising the willingness to achieve remarkable solutions despite negativity. The Liverpool city region mayoral combined authority is developing its fourth local transport plan, including a strategy for freight and logistics with National Highways' assistance, awaiting the outcome with interest. I reaffirm thanks to colleagues who have spoken and whose points have been taken on board.
Assessment & feedback
Summary accuracy

About Westminster Hall Debates

Westminster Hall debates are a chance for MPs to raise important issues affecting their constituents and get a response from a government minister. Unlike Prime Minister's Questions, these debates are more in-depth and collaborative. The MP who secured the debate speaks first, other MPs can contribute, and a minister responds with the government's position.