MP calls for more motorway exits over Pennines following M62 crash

M62 crash

James McCartney, the MP for Colne Valley, has asked the Leader of the House of Commons, Chris Grayling, for a discussion on the trans-pennine section of the M62 following an incident near to junction 21, Milnrow, on Monday (8 June) in which motorists where gridlocked for most of the day.

Mr McCartney spoke out in the House of Commons on Thursday (11 June) following the pile up, which saw a lorry driver left fighting for his life after his vehicle crashed through the central reservation and hit on-coming traffic and resulted in motorway being closed in both directions for several hours, causing miles of tailbacks.

http://www.rochdaleonline.co.uk/news-features/2/news-headlines/96173/lorry-driver-critically-injured-and-m62-closed-in-both-directions-at-junction-21-milnrow

http://www.rochdaleonline.co.uk/news-features/2/news-headlines/96222/man-remains-in-critical-condition-following-serious-collision-on-the-m62

Speaking in the House of Commons, Mr McCartney said: “Will the Leader of the House join me in passing his best wishes to those who were injured in Monday’s horrific crash on the M62, which closed part of the motorway for 20 hours?

“May we have an urgent debate on trans-pennine motorway links so that we can discuss congestion, alternative routes and new exits for the M62?”

Chris Grayling, the Leader of the House, stated that the matter would be referred to Transport Minister Patrick McLoughlin and encouraged Mr McCartney to apply for an adjournment debate on the motorway.

Mr Grayling said: “Our sympathies go out to everyone involved. We wish those who were injured a speedy recovery and commend all the members of the emergency services. Our firefighters cut people out of crashed cars and our paramedics save lives. They do a fantastic job for all of us, as they clearly did in this instance.

“I will ensure that my honourable friends concerns are drawn to the attention of the Transport Secretary, but he may also wish to consider applying for an adjournment debate.”