MP WINS BATTLE FOR M1 SOUND BARRIERS

Kelvin Hopkins MP for Luton North this week received a letter from Roads Minister, Lord Larry Whitty saying that sound absorbent barriers will be erected along the M1 through Luton. Kelvin Hopkins has been campaigning since being elected to persuade the Highways Agency and the Government to provide barriers along the length of the M1 in Luton where it passes close to homes and schools.

After receiving the letter, Kelvin Hopkins MP said: "I am absolutely delighted with this news. After years of campaigning and apparently making no progress, I invited Lord Whitty to visit Luton to see the problem for himself. After discussions with the Highways Agency some weeks later he has now written back giving the go ahead in principle subject to local planning procedures and consultations.

"£3 million has been committed to the scheme and the decision represents a great victory for all those local people living near to the M1 who have waited many years for something to be done about the noise and pollution the motorway inevitably creates. Above all, I am pleased for them and I am writing to Lord Whitty to express my thanks for his most welcome decision."

For further information please contact Kelvin Hopkins MP on Luton 488208.