Bus Networks
During the 2019 general election campaign, and since being elected as the Member of Parliament for Bolsover, I have received regular complaints from residents across the constituency, specifically in rural villages such as Hilcote and Palterton regarding local bus services.
I know many local bus routes have been withdrawn over the past few years, with evening and weekend services becoming rarer and I very much welcome the Government’s £5 billion of new funding as part of our national bus strategy aimed at improving bus services and links for communities across England.
Poor bus services seriously limit connectivity and often leaves certain groups, especially the elderly, young people, and those who do not drive, cut off.
I would like to see simpler fares, new buses, improved routes, and higher frequency services to make everyday journeys easier and more convenient.
Cycling Network
Embracing Bolsover's potential as a cycling hub will have numerous benefits in health, tourism and the local economy.
As more people are choosing to cycle in their everyday lives we do our bit to reduce harmful emissions, improve air quality and stay active. I am keen to promote cycling across the constituency wherever it is safe and sensible to do so.
The Bolsover region has three distinct tourist attractions; Hardwick Hall, Bolsover Castle, and Creswell Crags. I want to create a more joined-up approach to these destinations by linking this to our cycle network, so that our area can benefit from cycle and short-stay tourism.
HS2
I continue to work with local groups, such as HS2 Blackwell, local authorities, and regional MPs to secure necessary alterations to the current route and spur. The current route has a profound impact on the Bolsover constituency and this is something I wish to address.
East Midlands Freeport
I am proud of my part in the campaign to establish an East Midlands Freeport which could bring up to 80,000 jobs and sees £1bn of investment into the the region.
The new freeport will make it cheaper and easier for business to set up and conduct their business, attracting investment and development into our region – it will be a game-changer for our part of the world.
I’m incredibly pleased that the Government is committed to delivering its manifesto pledge to level-up the whole of the UK, including making direct investments into the East Midlands
A61
I am working with Derbyshire County Council and North East Derbyshire District Council to secure necessary improvements and increase capacity of the A61 to stop traffic problems affecting Clay Cross and Chesterfield.
Clay Cross Station
I am working with Lee Rowley MP to develop a railway station at Clay Cross to serve the residents in Pilsley, Stonebroom, Morton, Shirland, Higham, Wessington, Brackenfield, Stretton, and Woolley Moor. I want to see our area benefit from what regional connectivity has to offer: jobs, investment and tourism.
Station at Blackwell and Westhouses
Following representations from local councillors and residents, I am exploring the possibility of restoring a railway station at Blackwell and Westhouses.
Shirebrook Link Road
Shirebrook suffers due to poor East-West infrastructure. The creation of a purpose-built link road from J29 of the M1 to Shirebrook would improve regional connectivity, encourage business, investment, and relieve pressure on the A617 through Glapwell, Doe Lea, and Bramley Vale.
Robin Hood Line Extension
I am working with local MPs Ben Bradley (Mansfield) and Mark Spencer (Sherwood) to create a new rail route from Shirebrook to Ollerton via Warsop and Edwinstowe. This will dramatically improve regional connectivity in Shirebrook and help us make the most of being part of the East Midlands’ growing economy offering greater accessibility for tourists.
J28/J29
Junctions 29 and 28 of the M1 are at capacity and are a danger to road users. I am working with Highways England to secure improvements to the layout and flow of traffic across both of these major junctions to help improve road safety and traffic flow.
Treble Bob Roundabout
In recent years new demands have been made on the treble bob roundabout therefore we must secure funding for a new scheme to prevent congestion and traffic at peak times, whilst ensuring the improvements are suitable for pedestrians and cyclists.
A616/Creswell Road
Road safety on Creswell Road is a major concern within the local community. I will work with residents to help find a solution to speeding, traffic, and congestion on the A616.
