READING West and Mid Berkshire MP Olivia Bailey has provided an update on the safety review of a number of slip roads at Beedon and East Ilsley on the A34.
Ms Bailey had presented a Safety Bill to Parliament amid concerns over the slip roads, including worries over poor junction visibility and inadequate merge lanes that are ‘placing lives at risk.’
It also comes after joint letter, signed by Bailey, was also signed by Lee Dillon MP (Newbury), Olly Glover MP (Didcot and Wantage), and Kit Malthouse MP (North West Hampshire), echoing concerns.
National Highways has agreed to analyse safety data on the slip roads, which will be used to consider a range of potential options for safety solutions.
The review is now expected to be completed by early 2026, and National Highways will continue to engage with Ms Bailey as progress is made.
Ms Bailey also wrote to the new Roads Minister, Simon Lightwood, about the campaign, who assured her that he would ensure that once National Highways has concluded its review, it shares its findings and proposed next steps.
Ms Bailey said: “I am delighted that work is underway on the much-needed safety study of the slip roads at East Ilsley and Beedon, after my campaign secured support from the Roads Minister.
“I know this will be welcome news for many of my constituents who have told me of their fears when using these dangerous slip roads.
“I will continue to engage with both National Highways and the Department for Transport to ensure the review continues to progress and constituents’ concerns are listened to.”
