The transport secretary Patrick McLoughlin has visited Cornwall to inspect the progress of a number of initiatives aimed at improving the region’s connectivity.

One of the highlights of his tour was a turf-cutting ceremony to kick off work on the dualling of 2.8 miles of the A30 between Temple and Higher Carblake. The £56 million project will also create three new junctions at Cardinham Downs, Preeze Cross and Temple For.

He was also able to hear opinions from local people about plans to turn the A30 between Carland Cross and Chiverton Cross, which the government hopes will bolster the road link between Exeter and Cambourne.

These projects are some of the seven major road improvements announced by the government in the Autumn Statement last year. They are worth a total of £2 billion, and are set to create 1,300 jobs in the area.
Mr McLoughlin said: “Boosting Cornwall’s road links will make the county an even more attractive destination for businesses and visitors. I am absolutely committed to delivering the road, rail and air infrastructure Cornwall needs.”