Part of where the new road will go near Preston

The route of a major new road to the west of Preston has been confirmed, as plans are officially lodged by Lancashire County Council.

Preston’s Western Distributor, linking the M55 to the Docks, is part of plans for thousands of new homes in the North West of the city.

Cutting through a swathe of farmland the 2.6 miles of road is to join two smaller link roads.

The first an East-West Link Road connects into new housing developments at Lightfoot Lane, Fulwood, while another is a link road into Cottam.

Click to see full-size map showing the route of the Western Distributor

Related: Watch route the Preston Western Distributor is due to take

Cabinet member for highways and transport county councillor John Fillis said: “This is another major step for this scheme to deliver a new road to this area, providing additional capacity to the network, helping people to get around and supporting new economic growth in the area.

“A new motorway junction will improve travel times for people coming to and from the city, while also relieving congestion on other parts of the road network. Through City Deal we’re unlocking the potential of the area, bringing new jobs and new homes for people.

“We’re already seeing major changes across the area through our City Deal, such as the Broughton Bypass and expansion of the A582, as well as improvements to town and city centres. This will bring new people into the area and deliver new economic growth.

“This is a big opportunity for the Preston and South Ribble area, with benefits for the whole county. We’re determined to work hard to make this happen.”

Plans for the western road are due to go to the county council’s development control committee in the coming months, as well as Preston City Council’s planning committee.

Related: Preston Western Distributor contractors appointed

Deputy leader of the city council councillor John Swindells said: “City Deal is making great progress and this is another important milestone for Preston. We’re talking a major new junction on the motorway which will make a huge difference to the area.

“The Preston Western Distributor road is a massive improvement in Preston’s transport infrastructure and the catalyst for unlocking new homes and business growth across Preston. We’re looking forward to the plans taking shape.”

Funding for the roads comes from the City Deal, a £430m investment into new homes and roads across Preston and South Ribble.

What do you think about the Preston Western Distributor plans? Do you live in the area? Let us know in the comments below