Commons Sense

House of Commons · Westminster Hall

Bromsgrove Route Enhancement Programme

13 October 2026 · 2 other contributors · 4,198 words

Opened by Bradley Thomas Con Bromsgrove

Responding minister: Justin Madders

EmploymentTransportLocal Government

Summarised by AI from the official record, so it can contain mistakes.

Read the full transcript on Parliament.uk

At a glance

Bradley Thomas raised concerns about bromsgrove route enhancement programme in Westminster Hall. A government minister responded.

Key points

  • Bradley Thomas expressed concern over severe disruption to Bromsgrove's economy, businesses, and residents due to the Bromsgrove Route Enhancement Programme (BREP).
  • Thomas requested the government to engage National Highways to take control of the BREP scheme, citing Worcestershire County Council's lack of expertise and ongoing delays.
  • Thomas asked the government to provide answers to 34 questions regarding the scheme's delivery and the burden of additional costs.

Key requests to Government

Thomas asked the government to consider engaging National Highways to take control of the BREP scheme, given Worcestershire County Council's apparent lack of expertise and the scheme's delays. He also requested answers to 34 questions regarding the scheme's delivery and the burden of additional costs.

How the debate unfolded

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

Opened the debate

Bradley Thomas Con Bromsgrove

Bradley Thomas expressed deep concern over the Bromsgrove Route Enhancement Programme (BREP), citing severe disruption to Bromsgrove's economy, businesses, and residents. He mentioned the town's role as a crucial pressure release valve for the M5 motorway, with the A38 becoming heavily congested during motorway disruptions. Thomas highlighted the lack of accountability, poor communication, and endless delays in BREP's delivery, affecting local safety, business profits, and the town's reputation. He cited specific examples of businesses struggling and residents facing safety concerns, such as parents worrying about their children's school journeys and drivers splitting tyres on unmarked kerbs. He also mentioned the tragic loss of an 83-year-old cyclist, emphasizing the worsening traffic and congestion.

Other contributors (2)
  • Jim Shannon DUP Strangford

    Commends the hon. Gentleman for bringing forward the debate and highlights the need for stricter oversight of public money committed to corridor schemes, citing the example of the £1.7 billion A5 upgrade in Northern Ireland which faced 20 years of legal and bureaucratic challenges.

  • Mark Garnier Con Wyre Forest

    Thanks the hon. Friend for securing the debate and discusses wider infrastructure issues in Worcestershire and the West Midlands, including problems in Stourport with people trying to avoid the town and the need for road improvements such as a Stourport relief road and a new bridge over the River Severn.

Government Response

Justin Madders

It is a pleasure to see you in the Chair this afternoon, Mr Wishart. I am grateful to the hon. Member for Bromsgrove (Bradley Thomas) for securing the debate and for the determined way in which he has represented the interests of his constituents. I welcome the opportunity to respond to the concerns that the hon. Member has raised regarding the A38 Bromsgrove route enhancement programme and its impact on residents, businesses and road users. The programme, developed and delivered by Worcestershire county council, aims to reduce congestion, support housing and employment growth, and improve connectivity for pedestrians and cyclists. However, the programme has experienced significant delays due to the discovery of numerous previously uncharted utility assets, including complex gas infrastructure, and adverse weather conditions. Most elements of the programme are expected to be completed in early 2027, with the final section, Oakalls roundabout, expected to finish in June 2027, though the council is exploring opportunities to accelerate delivery. The Department for Transport has provided funding and maintains oversight to ensure value for taxpayers, but it does not manage contractors or direct operational decisions on site. The minister argued that the programme remains deliverable and that the local authority is accountable for its governance, procurement, and delivery. He also acknowledged the need for improved communication to rebuild public confidence. The Government expects Worcestershire county council to complete the remaining works, minimise disruption, and keep local communities informed.

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