M1 Junction 10a officially opened by Minister for Transport

The £30 million scheme has greatly reduced the queues and congestion that motorists formerly experienced at the junction and significantly improved the safety and reliability of journey times for motorists and business transport.

The scheme, which began in January 2014, has also unlocked development opportunities for the town.  Cllr Sian Timoney, Portfolio Holder for transformation said:  “The improvements will unlock  around £800 million of development covering housing, employment and retail growth throughout the south and east of Luton, including Power Court in Luton Town Centre, Napier Park (the former Vauxhall Motors site), Airport expansion and Butterfield Business Park as well as several other sites in the area.

“The total increase in the number of jobs available once these sites are developed is expected to be in the region of 15,000 over the next 15 years.”

Speaking at the opening Transport Minister,  Andrew Jones said:  “This scheme will make it easier for people to access Luton Airport and the M1, providing better journeys for residents and businesses and supporting more housing and jobs.

“The Government is committed to investing in faster and more reliable transport links. This road scheme is part of our long term economic plan to deliver benefits for everyone.”

Chris Evans, Managing Director of VolkerFitzpatrick said: "It is great to see the completion of this project to improve the connection from Luton to the motorway network which significantly reduces journey times and increases road safety for all road users. Extensive collaboration between the stakeholders was key to the success of the project and we are delighted to have worked alongside Luton Borough Council to deliver these works together for the benefit of the community"

Works undertaken as part of the scheme include:

• construction of dual three lanes from M1 J10 to Capability Green with old J10a roundabout now grade separated.
• construction of a new underpass.
• two new roundabouts.
• six new gantries.
• concrete safety barrier throughout.