NEW stretches of motorway through the North have been welcomed by a regional assembly - but the Government is being urged to do even more.

The Yorkshire and Humber Regional Assembly is pressing for more bold moves on both the road and rail networks in North Yorkshire.

Chairman, Councillor Peter Box, said: "We are delighted the Government has listened to the region and its needs.

"However, the A1 upgrade is only one piece of the transport jigsaw which urgently needs addressing. We are continuing to argue the case with Government to increase our share of the country's rail investment. Rail and road are both critical to the economic success of this region."

On Tuesday, Westminster announced 29 miles of new motorway between Bramham and Barton. Up to £263m will be spent building three-lane stretches between Wetherby and Walshford and Dishforth and Barton.

Meanwhile, the assembly wants interim low-cost safety measures ahead of the upgrade.

Coun Box said: "I know this issue has been a particular concern to communities alongside the A1 in North Yorkshire and we welcome the news that the Government will follow these recommendations."

Other regional transport priorities highlighted by the assembly include better trans-Pennine links, developing air transport, ports and waterways and improving public transport to strategic economic zones and to key regional centres.