×

Canvey Way mechanical joint replacement works successfully completed


20/11/2023
Latest News

The mechanical joint replacement works on East Haven Viaduct on Canvey Way were successfully completed on 5 November 2023.  These works were carried out with the support of a series of overnight road closures as the joint crosses the full width of the carriageway.

We utilised the road closures to carry out additional works where this was possible, reducing future works required on the viaduct.

Read more

Canvey Way, Canvey Island - East Haven Viaduct

Works location and photos

View of existing expansion joint due to be replaced which crosses Canvey Way
View of existing expansion joint to be replaced
View of High Road
Side end view of new expanding joint that will run through the carriageway

About the scheme

East Haven Viaduct is a highway structure that carries the A130 (Canvey Way) over East Haven Creek to the north west of Canvey Island. The viaduct was built in 1973 as part of the Canvey – Benfleet Approach Road project.

The structure is 612 metres long with 31 spans and comprises of a continuous, cast in-situ solid reinforced concrete deck which is supported by reinforced concrete end abutments and intermediate supports.

Essential maintenance is now planned to replace the original mechanical expansion/movement joint installed in 1973, which has now exceeded its service life and is beyond economic repair.  This is a significant piece of work that will require a full closure of the viaduct for the main works, as the joint spans the width of the carriageway.

The replacement movement joint has been manufactured in Munich by the original manufacturer.  This has now been delivered and is in storage ready for installation.

View an animation from the manufacturer to give you an insight into how the joint works, and why it will not be possible for the road to remain open during installation.

East Haven Viaduct is a key strategic route for Islanders.  Efforts are being taken to minimise the amount of time the work will take by planning some advance preparatory works which will be carried out with the support of temporary traffic lights before the main works, which will require a full closure of the bridge.

Where possible, other works will also be planned to fully utilise the closure of Canvey Way, where it is safe to do so.

What is involved and how it may affect you

Works are being planned in phases to limit inconvenience to Islanders and commuters.  Traffic restrictions will be adjusted according to activities taking place.

Provisional dates 
Works and proposed traffic restrictions

Phase one:

Completed

  • Preparations for joint repair works

    Temporary traffic lights on Canvey Way overnight. This restriction will be removed during the daytime to allow normal traffic flow to resume.

Phase two - main works:

Completed

  • Joint replacement works on Canvey Way.  This will include installing the mechanical joint, surfacing and waterproofing.

    A temporary closure of Canvey Way from 2095 metres to the south of the structure, and south easterly of its junction to the roundabout with Sadlers Farm. No pedestrian/cyclist access possible during this period.

    Please note that the diversion via Ferry Road has a signed low bridge of 16’-0”. 

Phase three:

Completed

  • Joint protection activities will require an overnight closure of Canvey Way on 5th November.
  • Where possible, additional works will take place during the road closure including: pot hole repairs, joint sealing in the carriageway and carrying out inspections and testing of the bridge's soffits.

Drivers are advised to take extra care when travelling in the area and allow additional time as diversions will be in place during closure periods. Please note that the diversion via Ferry Road has a signed low bridge of 16’-0”.

River users will not be affected by these works.

Bus operators have been informed of our proposed works so that they can consider changes to their operations if required.

Further information

This webpage will continue to be updated as new information becomes available as the works progress.

Details may be subject to change at short notice if the works are affected by poor weather or if unforeseen issues arise. The latest information will be reflected on site signage with updates also reflected on this webpage.

For details about other roadworks in the area, please visit One.network