WITNEY MP Robert Courts has called congestion on the A40 a 'blight' on West Oxfordshire and a 'millstone around the necks' of its businesses.

Mr Courts said he was 'determined to tackle' the busy commuter road's issues as he led an adjournment debate in the House of Commons yesterday evening.

He warned there was no 'silver bullet' to solve A40 congestion and once again pushed for an integrated transport network involving trains and buses.

Up to 32,000 cars use the road every day between Witney and Oxford, with drivers facing regular delays.

Read again: Witney MP grills Prime Minister about the A40

Mr Courts said: "This is not just a matter of minor inconvenience for us.

"It's something that is a blight on the lives of commuters and a millstone around the necks of our businesses.

"It's vital that we work towards and ultimately achieve a final fix for the A40.

"Only then can West Oxfordshire and the surrounding areas achieve their full potential."

Last month, Oxfordshire County Council unveiled £180m plans for the road, including a new Eynsham park-and-ride and an eastbound bus lane between Eynsham and Wolvercote.

Read again: £180m plans to ease A40 congestion

Mr Courts said he was encouraged by the plans, plus proposed funding through the Housing Infrastructure Fund and the creation of a Major Road Network.

He said: "There's greater cause for optimism than there has been for decades.

"But there's still much work to do if we're to deliver the improvements needed."