SHADOW Transport Minister Chris Grayling has backed the campaign to dual the northern ring road in York and bring an end to motorists' misery.

The MP joined Tory party hopeful Julian Sturdy to urge City of York Council to start building a case for a dual carriageway so a firm proposal could be put to the Government.

He claimed the Liberal Democrat-run authority had missed an opportunity when it submitted its most recent Local Transport Plan to the Government.

Mr Grayling joined Mr Sturdy to meet members of the business community from Clifton Moor Business Park, who expressed concerns about the impact the road was having on trade. They claim it could be deterring new companies from moving in.

Mr Sturdy, Conservative parliamentary spokesman for York Outer, believes dualling is essential for the future growth and prosperity of the city and welcomed the Shadow Minister's endorsement.

He said: "Chris was in no doubt that something needs to be done here. Our policy is not to build new roads in the open countryside if possible, but to upgrade those we have. He said there was definitely a case for upgrading the northern ring road to iron out pinch points.

"Dualling is essential, not just for helping businesses and commuters, but also to help local communities that depend on the northern ring road as their main access.

"Chris Grayling is fully behind my campaign, which is also gathering support from householders I have leafleted regarding this issue."

Ben Hudson, a partner of Hudson Moody Estate Agents, discussed the issue with Mr Grayling as he frequently uses the road.

"I do quite a lot of business in the Clifton Moor area," he said.

"It's getting to the stage where people don't want to go up and down the ring road."