Mike Penning has written to the Chief Executive of the Highways Agency calling on him to resolve the ongoing problems for people joining and leaving the M1 at Junction 8.

Hemel Hempstead MP, Mike Penning has written to the Chief Executive of the Highways Agency expressing his frustration and disappointment at the continuing traffic chaos experienced by users of Junction 8 on the M1.

Even though work on the M1 widening has been completed, ancillary work around Junction 8 is still ongoing and causing congestion and delays for local users.

Mike said:

“I fully sympathise with the numerous Hemel residents who are continually facing delays at Junction 8. It’s particularly galling to be sitting in a traffic jam while the Highways Agency is patting itself on the back for the ‘successful’ widening of the M1.”

He added:

“I couldn’t believe it when I received an invitation to the opening ceremony of the widened section. Whilst I accept that the widening of the M1 itself has been successful, celebration is a bit premature when Hemel residents are facing daily delays and congestion.”

In his letter Mike told the Chief Executive:

“I would also like to take this opportunity to express my personal disappointment to be invited to an opening ceremony regarding the rest of the works. While I recognise the importance of the wider project, given the local implications I have detailed, I consider such an invite to be somewhat insulting.”