A GOVERNMENT decision not to include the A591 which runs from Kendal to Keswick in a new funding scheme has been branded 'a big mistake' by South Lakes MP Tim Farron.

The funding scheme known as the Major Road Network will see more money allocated for some of the country’s busiest and most economically important local authority ‘A’ roads. Mr Farron has written to the Transport Secretary, Chris Grayling, urging him to reconsider the A591's omission from a 12 week consultation.

“The A591 is the key artery through the Lake District," said Mr Farron. “When Storm Desmond forced it to close in 2015, it showed just how important the road is to the county.

“With the Lake District gaining World Heritage Site status, including the A591 in the Major Road Network should have been an absolute no brainer.

“I will push the Department of Transport until they fix this big mistake.”