Progress on the A614/A6097 scheme has moved up a gear with the first works now underway at the Kirk Hill junction in East Bridgford.
Targeted archaeology works on land off East Bridgford Road mark the official start of works at Kirk Hill junction and they will be followed by the construction of the site compound before main construction works begin in August.
Kirk Hill is one of five junctions included in the A614/A6097 major road network scheme and improvements will focus on widening the junction to add an extra lane in each direction on the A6097 to increase capacity and reduce journey times.
Right-turn lanes into Kirk Hill and East Bridgford Road will also be widened with new road markings aiming to make turning right safer and easier for motorists.
Junction improvements will also include a new traffic signal system to better manage vehicle flow, upgraded street lighting to increase visibility, the renewal of the footpath along Kirk Hill and upgrades to the bridleway crossing to improve access for pedestrians, cyclists and horse riders.
The first phase of main works at Kirk Hill will start in August and motorists are advised to allow extra time for journeys through the area as a closure of Kirk Hill and East Bridgford Road will be in place for 12 months.
Funding for the A614/A6097 scheme has been secured through a capped £24.3 million contribution from the Department for Transport, an additional £8.3 million from Nottinghamshire County Council, £1.7m from developer contributions and £12.6 million from the East Midlands Combined County Authority and national government to complete the financial package.
Councillor Mick Barton, Leader of Nottinghamshire County Council, said: “This is a huge milestone, not only for the A614/A6097 scheme, but for Nottinghamshire as a whole.
“We know that residents and motorists have been waiting for many years to see improvements along the A614 and A6097 and we’re pleased that we’re now starting to make these junction improvements a reality.
“Anyone who has driven through this junction will recognise that improvements are needed and once works are complete, a new lane in each direction will help traffic to flow more smoothly.
“It’s great news that street lighting, traffic signals and the bridleway crossing will also be improved so that all road users feel the benefit of the works we are doing in this area.
“Any scheme of this kind unfortunately means that there may be delays to motorists while construction works are taking place. Traffic management measures will be in place throughout different phases of the construction, and I would encourage residents and motorists to sign up to our A614 email bulletin for updates.
“I’d like to thank Via East Midlands and other partners involved in this scheme and I look forward to seeing these improvement works take shape across the next 12 months.”
Claire Ward, Mayor of the East Midlands, said: “I know how much the A614/A6097 scheme matters to the people and businesses who rely on this route every day, whether they are navigating busy junctions such as Ollerton roundabout or travelling along the wider corridor. I recognise the real impact congestion, and delays have on everyday life.
“By prioritising £12.6 million of funding to support the full scheme it will deliver real benefits for people, helping them get to work, reach education, access services, and support local businesses.”
