HIGHWAYS England yesterday refused to confirm multi-million pound schemes to improve the A34 would still go ahead amid warnings its roads programme was in chaos.

A report by the National Audit Office found the authority’s road investment strategy was £841m over budget, with 16 schemes on A roads at risk of being cancelled.

These could include A34 junction improvements at Botley and Pear Tree, as well as technology improvements on the stretch between the M4 and M40, but Highways England would not comment.

When asked if the projects were among the 16 deemed to be ‘a risk to value for money’, a spokesman said: “We can’t confirm any projects at this stage.”

The spokesman insisted there was ‘no immediate need or plans to cancel schemes’, adding: “We are confident we will deliver our capital programme without overspending our budget.”

Oxford West and Abingdon MP Nicola Blackwood, who campaigned for the A34 upgrades, yesterday said she had raised the issue personally with Transport Secretary Chris Grayling.

She said: “He has assured me that the A34 remains a top priority.

“That is why Highways England are currently working to bring forward the Oxford junction improvements and technology management scheme, supported by tens of millions from the Department for Transport.”

A Department for Transport spokesman said: “As the National Audit Office report acknowledges, we have made significant progress in managing our major roads more efficiently, and we are confident Highways England will deliver safe and reliable roads that deliver value for money for the taxpayer.”