About the Scheme
The proposed scheme (hybrid cycleway) runs between Anglia Ruskin University at Rectory Lane and Victoria Road. The existing on-road facility is advisory-only, is of insufficient width and can often be blocked by parked vehicles in places. The proposal is to provide one- way, raised, coloured hybrid cycle tracks along both sides of New Street for the majority of the length between Rectory Lane and Victoria Road with short sections of improved advisory where necessary.
The works
A raised hybrid cycle track is a purpose-built track created next to the footway at a level that is above the carriageway but below the footway. This provides greater definition for cyclists and increases safety, reducing conflict with both pedestrians and vehicles. It will have red surfacing to highlight the definition between the different uses and shaped kerbing to allow cyclists joining from side roads and vehicles to cross over and access private properties.
Southbound cyclists will use a raised hybrid cycle track whereas northbound cyclists will use a combination of raised hybrid, segregated footway / cycleway and advisory at points due to the interaction with existing properties and parking outside the shops. This will also be red in colour.
A developer funded parallel crossing will be installed just to the north of the Network Rail bridge outside the Marconi Development providing an east – west link between the River Chelmer and the railway station via Brook Street and the Marconi Housing Development / Mill Yard.
The current parking provision outside the shops between Marconi Road and Bishop Road will be retained, lighting and signage along the road upgraded and the signalised junction at Victoria Road amended to provide improved provision for cyclists on the approach to the junction.
The scheme links with an existing route through the university to the north and access into the City Centre via New Street and Tindal Square to the south.
This proposed work is part of the £15 million Chelmsford City Growth Package of improvements designed to alleviate pressure on Chelmsford’s road network and encourage alternative forms of transport. This work forms part of a series of cycle improved proposals taking place such as (links – city centre cycle parking, Great Baddow to city centre, Great Waltham to city centre, city centre cycle connectivity)
The benefits
Creating quality cycling infrastructure between the university, transport hubs and the city centre will encourage cycling and help reduce congestion at peak times.
The raised hybrid cycle tracks, widened segregated cycleway footways and enhanced advisory lanes will help create a visible high-profile, wider and safer cycleway along a strategically important route in the city centre.
The scheme will see over 0.5km of cycle route on the approach to the city centre, and in conjunction with other improvements will make cycling a more attractive option, improving health and wellbeing and discouraging car use.
This will also help relieve issues with parking capacity in and around the University.
How the works may affect you
Works began on 6 January 2020 and construction is due for completion by the end of May 2020.
These works are being carried out overnight to minimise inconvenience as it is necessary to close block sections of New Street overnight in phases. Closures will be implemented between the hours of 8pm and 5am, Monday to Friday.
Access to all roads, residential properties and businesses along the route will be maintained (accessible either from the north or the south side of New Street depending on the works location). Diversions will be signed and access will be clearly set out.
During the daytime the road layout will return to normal two-way unrestricted traffic flow, however some cones and barriers will be present to protect the works.
Proposed phasing:
The first three phases of the works are outlined below and are due for completion by early April 2020 before moving onto the next phases. This is to minimise the traffic management on site and to try and keep work area localised.
- Phase 1: Rectory Lane to Bishop Road
- Phase 2: Bishop Road to Marconi Road
- Phase 3: Marconi Road to Brook Street
- Information on additional phases to follow later in the programme.
Details may be subject to change depending on progress made on site and whether the works are impacted poor weather conditions or if unforeseen issues arise.
During each phase of construction, initial works will be include the removal of existing kerbs, paving and surface material as well as drain gullies as required.
We regret that due to the nature of this work and construction vehicles on site, there will be periods of temporary noise and local inconvenience however plans are in place to try to minimise this as much as reasonably practical. This includes undertaking cutting operations away from the work area where possible, and carrying out the noisiest activities during the earliest part of the night, planning less noisy activities after 11pm until the remainder of the shift.
Further information
Please note arrangements can sometimes be subject to change at short notice due to unsuitable weather conditions or if unexpected issues arise. The latest information will be reflected on site signage and this webpage.
Local residents and businesses will be kept informed as details become available.
For details about other roadworks in the area please visit one.network or our twitter feed @essexhighways.