FELIXSTOWE: Port chiefs left disappointed by the axing of a �1 billion project to solve an A14 bottleneck have pledged to do all they can to help with work on an alternative solution.

The scheme for the dual carriageway between Cambridge and Huntingdon was shelved as part of the public spending cuts.

For lorry drivers travelling to and from Felixstowe it is a key route to the north and midlands – and the biggest delay on their journeys.

At peak times, tailbacks can stretch for several miles.

Paul Davey, head of corporate affairs at the Port of Felixstowe, said the smooth running of the A14 was crucial to the port’s business and port executives had been lobbying government transport ministers over the scheme.

“We are very disappointed that the decision was taken to stop the scheme, but still hopeful that something can be done,” said Mr Davey.

“The government did recognise that this was a key vehicle route and the problems there and the indication was that there should be a study to look at alternative and more efficient ways of addressing this bottleneck.

“What we are keen to ensure is that progress is made on a study and the momentum is not lost.

“We will do all we can to see a deliverable solution brought forward in a relatively short time so it can be put to ministers.”

The Highways Agency had proposed building a new route for the A14 from Fen Drayton, just north of Cambridge, to Ellington west of Huntingdon.

The existing A14 would continue to carry traffic heading to or from the A1.

The Road Haulage Association is also pushing for an early solution to be found so a fresh bid can be made for funding. It says the delays on the A14 cost the economy millions of pounds every year.

n Is the government right to have vetoed the �1billion project – is it too much to spend? Write to Your Letters, Evening Star, 30 Lower Brook Street, Ipswich IP4 1AN, or email eveningstarletters@eveningstar.co.uk