MP Markus Campbell-Savours Secures Meeting to Tackle M6 Junction 40 Gridlock

Following months of intense summer traffic misery for local residents and holidaymakers, Markus Campbell-Savours, Member of Parliament for Penrith and Solway, has successfully secured a commitment from the Government for urgent talks on alleviating congestion at the notorious M6 Junction 40.

Mr. Campbell-Savours confronted the relevant Minister in Parliament today, highlighting the severe "summer of gridlock" experienced across Penrith and the surrounding villages, with the junction repeatedly grinding to a halt during peak holiday periods heading into Cumbria and the Lake District.

Speaking after securing the commitment, Mr. Campbell-Savours said:

"The residents of Penrith and the Solway area should not have to face summer paralysis simply because they live near a key tourist route. For too long, we have suffered intolerable delays that impact local businesses, emergency services, and the quality of life for my constituents.

While we are all grateful for the long-term commitment to the A66 trans-Pennine upgrade, that project will not ease the pain of this coming holiday season. That is why I pressed the Minister directly for urgent short-term interventions that National Highways can implement now."

The MP confirmed that the Minister, Simon Lightwood, has agreed to meet with him to discuss practical, immediate measures that can be put in place to ease the pressure points at Junction 40.

"I welcome the Minister's commitment to meet. My focus will be on pushing for swift, tangible actions that can bring immediate relief to our roads. I will be working closely with local stakeholders and National Highways to ensure that these proposed short-term fixes are both practical and implemented without delay ahead of the next busy season," Mr. Campbell-Savours concluded.

Full video can be watched here.