Upgrading the A1 in Hertfordshire, Bedfordshire and Cambridgeshire could cut congestion and help reduce the environmental impact, a new study suggests.

The A1 east of England strategic study, which was commissioned by the Department for Transport, shows the need for improvements to be made to parts of the 62-mile section between London and Peterborough.

Transport minister John Hayes said: “I want people across the east of England to benefit from quicker, more reliable journeys.

“Our cities and towns are the lifeblood of our economy and they, as well as our rural communities, need strong connections to thrive.

“We are already spending £15 billion on the biggest upgrade to the road network for generations. This next phase is aimed at creating more vital links, creating jobs and opportunities and helping hardworking families across the country feel the benefits of our investment.”

The study is part of the Government’s next phase of road improvements, which will get underway from 2020. The current Road Investment Strategy period covers 2015 to 2020.

A number of options to improve the A1 will now be developed. They include a new motorway section between Baldock and Huntingdon, improving junctions and upgrading the east to west connectivity around the route.