MPs Demand Urgent Safety Improvements on A34 Dual Carriageway

A cross-party group of MPs representing constituencies along the A34 in southern England have jointly called on the Minister for Transport to implement urgent safety improvements on the major dual carriageway. They highlighted dangerous slip roads, poor junction visibility, and inadequate merge lanes, with specific concern for short slip roads at junctions like Chieveley, Speen, Highclere, and Wash Water, which are contributing to preventable collisions. Public surveys in affected areas demonstrated overwhelming support for upgrades, with up to 95% of respondents backing safety improvements. The MPs, including Lee Dillon, Olivia Bailey, Olly Glover, and Kit Malthouse, have urged the Department for Transport to prioritize the A34 in its upcoming Road Investment Strategy (RIS3) and conduct a full safety review as part of the North and South of Oxford study. They stress the need for a strategic, well-funded plan to prevent further accidents and save lives on this vital transport corridor. National Highways has been commissioned to undertake an assessment following parliamentary advocacy, marking a positive step towards addressing these safety concerns.