Northern Approach - Advanced works complete

Subject to some remaining utility diversions being undertaken by Openreach, the advanced works on Northern Approach Road (A134) are reaching completion.

This has seen the removal of trees and vegetation along the western side of the road to create the required space for the new rapid transit infrastructure. These will ultimately be replaced as part of the main works, with large nursery-grown semi-mature trees (around 6-7m in height) planted, with an increase on the number of trees lost of over 20 per cent along the route. In addition, landscaped areas will be created, which will be planted with shrubs and herbaceous groundcover between the Rapid Transit System and nearby properties. This is being designed to promote biodiversity and attract wildlife, with the introduction of pollinator-friendly native plant species, log-piles and the addition of bat and bird boxes.

Following the advanced works, the contract for the main works has been awarded to construction firm John Sisk and Son Ltd. The main works are due to start during April/May and will initially see the contractor undertaking survey works ahead of increasing their presence on site over the coming months.

Further details will be provided on the programme of works as it is developed.

Meanwhile, if you have any questions about the works or the wider Rapid Transit System proposals, please email rapidtransit@essexhighways.org.

For further details about the Colchester Rapid Transit System please visit the Colchester Rapid Transit webpage.