PLANS to improve North-East transport links represent an “outrageous” regional divide and do not match the area’s requirements, it was last night claimed.

The Government has pledged more than £30m to deliver fresh congestion-busting schemes it says will make drivers’ journeys easier.

However, the proposals have been criticised by Councillor Bill Dixon, chairman of the Tees Valley Combined Authority’s transport committee, who said the south of the region has been snubbed for apparent political gain.

The Government blueprint includes two £15m junction improvement projects near Hexham and Corbridge, Northumberland, which the Department for Transport says will “create an unbroken stretch of dual carriageway” to Newcastle.

However, according to the plans, it appears just £500,000 will be allocated for widening work on the A66/B6280 Morton Palms junction in Darlington and £800,000 put aside for signal work at Sheraton on the A19, near Hartlepool.

Councillor Dixon, who is also leader of Darlington Borough Council, told The Northern Echo he believes it appeared “very much like a political game is being played”, rather than cases being judged on their merit, highlighting the place of Hexham and Corbridge within Conservative MP Guy Opperman’s constituency.

He added: “It is outrageous when you consider the cases we put forward.

“There are pinch-points around the A19; they are not an inconvenience, they are serious congestion.”

Stuart Miller, director of the Civil Engineering Contractors’ Association (North East), echoed Councillor Dixon’s concerns.

He added: “We had hoped to see a more wide-ranging package and remain hopeful the schemes outlined are the first of many.”

Arlen Pettitt, policy adviser at the North East England Chamber of Commerce, said pressure must be maintained on ministers.

He added: “There’s lots still to be done and it’s important we keep pressure on to deliver more investment.”

However, transport secretary Chris Grayling said the plans were reflective of a Government committed to ensuring its road network matches demand.

He added: “We are making the most extensive improvements to roads in the last 40 years to keep our country moving and make journeys faster, better and more reliable.

“We are also spending a further £1.3bn over the course of this Parliament to relieve congestion and ensure our roads are fit for the future.

“These schemes will save drivers from getting stuck in traffic.”