Local drivers face growing traffic congestion at Junction 13 of the M1, according to a campaign demanding government funding for road improvements before Universal Studios opens in 2031.
The junction already experiences regular delays, but planned housebuilding alongside millions of expected theme park visitors will increase pressure on surrounding local routes.
Traffic concerns
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Mid Bedfordshire MP Blake Stephenson (Conservative) and Central Bedfordshire Cllr Sue Clark (Conservative/Cranfield and Marston Moretaine) have launched a public petition urging ministers to finance the junction upgrade ahead of the park opening.
So far, no firm financial commitment has been provided by the government to upgrade the junction.
Blake Stephenson MP said: “Universal will be a game changer for our area, but we need to ensure the appropriate infrastructure is in place before it opens to minimise the disruption for local people.
“In Parliament I’ve been calling on the Government to fund the upgrade to Junction 13 with questions to Ministers in the House of Commons and during Westminster Hall debates.
“But we’re yet to get any firm commitment from the Government, only suggestions that something may be in the pipeline long after Universal has opened its doors to millions of visitors.
“Local people need the upgrade to Junction 13 now, so that’s why we’ve launched a petition.”
Funding gap
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Cllr Sue Clark, who is also Chair of the Mid Bedfordshire Conservatives, stated that funding for the junction is separate from existing allocations.
She said: “Many people believe the £1.3 bn promised by the Government for local infrastructure as part of the Universal deal includes upgrading J13. It does not.
“J13 is a vitally important local as well as strategic road link.
“With the exceptional amount of development planned for our area, and millions of visitors expected to visit Universal via J13, it is vital J13 is upgraded before Universal opens.”
The petition is available online at fixj13.com for members of the public to sign.
