Congestion Jct44 M6

Subject: Concerns Regarding Traffic Congestion on the A689 Approaching M6 Junction 44

Dear Sir or Madam,

I write in my capacity as Clerk to Scaleby Parish Council following concerns raised by a number of Scaleby residents regarding increasing traffic congestion on the A689 when attempting to access the Junction 44 roundabout of the M6 near Carlisle.

Residents report experiencing considerable delays and difficulty joining or progressing along the A689 approach to the roundabout, particularly during busy periods. There is a strong perception locally that this congestion is significantly influenced by the priority effectively afforded to traffic exiting the southbound carriageway of the M6 onto the roundabout, resulting in traffic backing up along the A689.

The issue is causing growing frustration for residents who rely upon this route for access to Carlisle, employment, healthcare, education, and other essential services. Concerns have also been expressed regarding the potential safety implications associated with prolonged queuing and congestion.

Accordingly, the Parish Council would be grateful if the Highways Department could advise:

Whether this congestion issue is recognised as an ongoing traffic management problem; Whether any traffic monitoring, congestion analysis, or modelling has been undertaken in relation to Junction 44 and the A689 approach; What consideration has been given to potential measures to improve traffic flow and reduce delays; Whether any future highway improvement works are planned or under consideration for this junction. The Parish Council would welcome any information the Council is able to provide and would appreciate being kept informed of any proposals or investigations relating to this matter.

Yours faithfully,

Clerk to Scaleby Parish Council