A NEW £300,000 study will examine potential major improvements to road links between East Lancashire and towns including Keighley and Skipton.

The Highways England-led project, due to begin next month, will consider what enhancements could be made to links between the M65 at Colne and this area.

An agency spokesman said that currently there was "no consistent strategic route" for trans-Pennine traffic, with the limited routes that did exist suffering from congestion and leading to poor journey times for drivers.

Announcing the study, Transport Secretary Chris Grayling said: "We are investing more than £13 billion to improve transport across the north so people can get around more easily, quickly and safely.

"This study is part of our ongoing work to ensure the routes between Lancashire and Yorkshire are fit for the future – helping link communities better and boosting the economy to supercharge the Northern Powerhouse."

Highways England says the trans-Pennine corridor is home to many manufacturing industries which would benefit from improved roads.

It adds that investment could boost economic growth – not only in East Lancashire, West and North Yorkshire, but across the whole of northern England – and support jobs and housing.

Highways England chief executive Jim O’ Sullivan said: "The study will look at the issues currently facing road users in the trans-Pennine corridor, the extent to which the lack of strategic connection hinders growth, and options for improving those journeys and boosting economic growth.

"It will also look at how improvements could be used to support other trans-Pennine routes such as the M62."

The initial study will be followed by analysis of potential options, taking into account issues such as the terrain, environmental impact and economic growth and the views of key road-user groups.

Findings are expected to be published by late autumn, when a strategic outline business case will be produced so ministers can consider whether future investment should be made.