The EDP and Lowestoft Journal have asked people from across the town what their hopes and aspirations are for 2016. 2015 started with Waveney MP PETER ALDOUS contesting an all-important election. Now, after a year with huge breakthroughs on the third crossing and offshore wind, he looks forward to 2016 as a year of delivery.
The general election held on May 7 seems a long time ago now and much has happened since. I thought it appropriate to review what has happened since then and to look ahead to 2016.
The prospect of seeing a new bridge over Lake Lothing looks more promising now than at any other time. International infrastructure and business services company Mouchel were appointed in the summer and are busy carrying out the vital work of building up the business case for the project.
The third crossing will cost tens of millions of pounds and it is up to us now to ensure we can justify that expenditure. We have received a commitment from the prime minister and the chancellor to deliver a new crossing by 2020.
The New Anglia Local Enterprise Partnership and Suffolk County Council have commissioned a study in partnership with Waveney District Council and other agencies. It will seek to provide the robust evidence that the project is deliverable and offers good value for money.
In the Autumn Statement, the chancellor announced the creation of a new road building fund, to which bids can be made for schemes like the third crossing – which was specifically named. We look ahead to the Budget next spring for more details of funding for the bridge.
We also are seeking the backing of local people by signing a petition. This is vital to show the popular demand for this bridge which with the PM's commitment and a robust business case will make the prospect a reality. Go online and look at the new website www.lowestoftcrossing.co.uk for more details.
You can sign the petition at a number of places including Lowestoft Library, St Margaret's House Customer Centre, in Gordon Road, Lowestoft and Riverside, in Canning Road.
There has also been positive news about the future prospects for the Waveney economy.
£5million funding was provided in the Autumn Statement for Cefas to improve their headquarters, whilst they work up plans for a comprehensive redevelopment of their Pakefield site. Scottish Power have announced that the construction and operations and maintenance bases for the East Anglia ONE winfarm will be in Lowestoft.
Galloper have made a similar announcement with regard to the construction of their windfarm. These announcements pave the way for investing in the fish market, so as to secure the future of the industry in Lowestoft.
Significant challenges remain in the North Sea oil and gas sector, which need to be addressed as a matter of urgency and I shall be doing what I can in this respect in Westminster.
Whilst much has happened in 2015, I look ahead to 2016 as a real year of delivery for Waveney.
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