A Bucks-based MP has welcomed the Government’s decision to formally cancel the Ox-Cam Expressway.

Greg Smith, who is the MP for Buckingham, said in February that ‘enough is enough’ as the plans for the new carriageway would have gone through Milton Keynes.

The original plan was to build the dual carriageway next to the A34 near Oxford and the A14 near Cambridge, via (or near) Milton Keynes, which will see the road be linked with existing roads.

However, the development was halted on March 3, 2020, and has not restarted.

This has led to several complaints from residents with Mr Smith writing a letter of the Transport Secretary, Grant Shapps, regarding his and his constituency’s concerns.

READ MORE: Greg Smith wants the Oxford to Cambridge Expressway to be scrapped

Now, a year on from being paused, the plans have officially been scrapped.

Mr Smith said: "I'm delighted Transport Secretary, Grant Shapps, has listened to my very grave concerns about this scheme.

"I have lobbied ministers hard.

“The enormous devastation that would have been caused to Buckinghamshire countryside is totally unacceptable.

“East-West Rail will improve links - there is no need for this road scheme.

“I want to thank all local residents, local Conservative councillors, and campaigners that have made their voices heard in making the case against this road.

“This is a hard-earned victory.

“Residents have already had to endure, in many cases, unnecessary damage to their local surroundings due to the retrograde way in which HS2 Limited and their contractors have acted.

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"It is great news for everyone in Buckinghamshire that this unwanted Expressway scheme has been cancelled.

“It is now imperative we work out locally what improvements to existing local roads we do want to see and work with government and Buckinghamshire Council to agree what we need and want.”

Transport Secretary Grant Shapps said: “Since his election in 2019, Greg Smith has led the campaign for the cancellation of the expressway, which would not have worked for local residents.

“I confirmed to Greg today that I had taken the decision to formally scrap this project, so we can instead focus on transport that will help to create jobs, boost links within the region and which, crucially, enjoy public support.”