Transformational Army and Navy Sustainable Transport Package to encourage safer, greener and healthier travel in Chelmsford

A final shortlist of options for the Army and Navy junction is set to be confirmed early next year as the drive continues to transform the way people travel in Chelmsford.

Essex County Council is looking to provide a long-term solution at the junction that not only creates an effective and attractive gateway to the city, but also minimises any environmental impact and provides people with safer, greener and healthier alternatives to travelling by car, in line with the vision outlined in the Chelmsford Future Transport Network Strategy.

The Army and Navy Taskforce, which is overseeing the development of the project, were updated on the latest progress last Friday (4 December) and told that a decision of a final shortlist of options is expected to be made in early 2021.

Work is continuing to assess and refine four options for the junction - a hamburger roundabout, enlarged roundabout, two-way flyover and separate T-junctions.

Each option has been upgraded to include significantly improved walking and cycling facilities at the junction, while proposals are also being developed for the expansion of Sandon Park and Ride and a potential new park and ride site in Widford. The sustainable transport improvement measures are a crucial aspect of the project and part of a continued drive to encourage more people to walk, cycle or use the bus to get around the city.

Vicky Ford, MP for Chelmsford, added: “I know the people of Chelmsford want to see a new and improved junction at the Army and Navy as soon as possible, but it is also important that we get the best long term solution.

“It is good news that more detailed work is being done by expert engineers to model the likely impacts of each of the possible junction designs before options are narrowed down further.

“I will continue to press for work to be done as swiftly as possible and for the public to be fully consulted.”

Construction of the final scheme is currently expected to start in winter 2023/24 and be completed in winter 2025/26, but is subject to funding, planning and other processes.

For more information about the project and to sign up for the project e-newsletter, please visit www.essex.gov.uk/armyandnavy