A6 verdict imminent

A VERDICT on the route of the A6 bypass for Rushden and Higham Ferrers is to be announced within the next fortnight.

The long-awaited decision, which follows a marathon public inquiry last year could be made before the end of this month.

A spokesman for the Department of Transport said: "The matter is with the Secretary of State John MacGregor and his department.

"An announcement on the result is imminent. It will be within the next couple of weeks."

Nine different routes were suggested at the public inquiry.

The DoT's preferred route is three-and-a-half miles long and would leave the A45-A6 roundabout north of Higham Ferrers and pass to the east of Rushden and Higham before rejoining the existing road.