BARROW'S former prospective parliamentary candidate has welcomed the government's new commitment to improving the area's transport infrastructure.

Transport Secretary Chris Grayling was in Dalton to meet local residents and discuss the Government’s plans for improving local transport in and around Barrow and Furness.

And Simon Fell, Conservative Spokesman for Barrow and Furness, said he delighted to see the area being at the heart of the new plans.

He said: “Eighteen months ago, Trudy Harrison and I took the Transport Secretary to Grizebeck to see the pinch-point at Dove Ford for himself.

"I’m delighted that he is now here to formally announce the Government’s support for a bypass at that site. For those of us who travel daily from Barrow to Copeland and back again, the days of driving through a farmyard to do so are almost over.

“Alongside investment in our rail infrastructure, and a consultation on further improvements on the A595, this is the start of significant investment in our area from the Conservative government that will guarantee jobs and security for local people.”

Mr Grayling added: “Barrow and Furness is a crucial part of the Northern Powerhouse and I’m glad to be here today to demonstrate that the Government is listening, learning and investing in infrastructure here.

“From bypassing the pinch-point at Grizebeck, to a complete renewal of the rolling stock across our northern train network, this Government is committed to ensuring that the whole of Cumbria benefits from transport investment, meaning more reliable and safer journeys.”

Barrow and Furness MP John Woodcock added: “It has taken years for us to arrive at the point where a major upgrade of the hazardous Dove Ford pinch-point is finally on the cards and I am sure that some campaigners will be thinking of the late Alison Whillance, a Kirkby mum who did so much to get things moving with the A595 action group.

“We still have hurdles to overcome, so it is important that as many people as possible get involved in the consultation so they understand the options available and have their say.

“We will keep campaigning and we won’t rest until the last bit of tarmac has been laid.”