Leaders look to create a road to rival the M62

A top level meeting will see business leaders and politicians from both areas meeting next week to look at improving transport and economic links between the two counties.

Bradford Council bosses have revealed they are keen to discuss road improvements, and will be hoping to get backing from Lancashire for a scheme which could mean much-needed improvements in the east of the county given higher priority, such as the Colne to Foulridge bypass.

The results of the meeting, being held as part of the government-backed Central Lancashire City Region plan to transform the area's economy, could then be used as ammunition to approach the government for funding.

Today the move was welcomed by East Lancashire council and business leaders, who said the move could help bring much needed road improvements to the area, as well as help the economy.

Mike Damms, chief executive of the East Lancashire Chamber of Commerce, said: "We are meeting to see whether the current transport and infrastructure between the two districts are strong enough for a modern economy. One of the things we will consider is undoubtedly trans-pennine links."

The new idea is the brainchild of Bradford Council, which has been keen to see an improved link with East Lancashire.

In the past an extension of the M65 has been proposed, but this has now been ruled out because of the difficulty of getting permission and funding for the road, which would run through national park land in Yorkshire.

Councillor Anne Hawkesworth, portfolio holder for the environment on Bradford Council, revealed: "We are very keen to open up the link with some form of road improvements.

"We have to work together to make it happen. We have got to prove to the government, to make them aware that there is more to the links between Lancashire and Yorkshire than the M62. There is a north link as well that is required."