WORKINGTON MP Mark Jenkinson has pledged to tackle HGV traffic issues on one of West Cumbria's busiest roads.

Mr Jenkinson has received complaints from constituents about some lorries travelling at speed and in convoys, sometimes at unsociable hours along the A596.

Residents living in nearby towns and villages on route from Carlisle through to Aspatria, Crosby, Maryport and Flimby have also complained of road safety, noise and air quality issues.

Mr Jenkinson has talked to the Highways Authority, Police and major businesses using the route to try and improve the lives of people living nearby.

He said he will continue to work with businesses, Cumbria County Council and communities to find a long-term solution to the problem.

He said: “I am aware of the concerns of residents about the volume of HGVs using the A596. It can be a challenge to balance the needs of local businesses with the concerns of the communities.

"This is a key route for many large commercial vehicles, but it also runs through many towns and villages.

"We must not forget about the welfare, safety or quality of life of the people living in places like Crosby and Aspatria.”

Mr Jenkinson would like to see improvements made to the junction at the bottom of Ramsay Brow in Workington, which would make it easier for HGVs to pass through.

He said: “The sheer amount of HGV traffic on the A596 is one of the main reasons for my campaigning on the A66/A595 junction at the bottom of Ramsay Brow.

“It is easier for wagons to use this road as it passes through fewer towns and villages compared to the A596.

"However, at the bottom of Ramsay Brow and further along the road on Hall Brow and Workington Bridge, there are pinch points that make it difficult for HGVs to pass.

"Improvements to the pinch points is something I continue to discuss with Government and with local authorities.”