Press Releases and Highways Highlights

Cllr Kevin Bentley, Deputy Leader of Essex County Council and Cabinet Member for Infrastructure, said: “It is fantastic to see this long-awaited major project becoming a reality.

“The new junction is critical for Harlow and the wider area, ultimately helping to reduce congestion in the town, offering new public transport opportunities and further unlocking the economic potential of Harlow through supporting local business growth.”

One of the biggest infrastructure projects in the county, the works will see a new junction created between junction 7 and 8 of the M11 and a new link road joining the M11 with a widened B183 Gilden Way. This will ultimately see a new east-west link created through the town.

Referring to the ongoing Coronavirus situation, Cllr Bentley added: “Covid-19 has, of course, had an impact on many infrastructure projects

“Therefore, we have been working closely with the contractor GRAHAM to enable surveying and preparatory works to take place, with stringent social distancing rules in operation. This will continue as the works progress.

“We are also looking closely at other schemes that are going on, such as in Edinburgh Way, which is due to complete in the next few weeks, to ensure that the potential impact on traffic is minimised”

The new junction 7a is planned to open in 2022.

For more information and to register for construction updates on the scheme visit www.essex.gov.uk/junction7a.

The works are continuing with appropriate social distancing measures in place and have received a boost thanks to an additional £17.9m funding from Department for Transport highways for repairs and maintenance. 

Major improvements on the A133 at Ipswich Rd to Harwich Rd in Colchester have started, as has the Edinburgh Way works in Harlow, which has previously changed to daytime works. Preliminary work to build the new Junction 7A on the M11 at Harlow is also being prepped too, linked to a new east-west route across the town.

Councillor Kevin Bentley, Deputy Leader of Essex County Council and Cabinet Member for Infrastructure, said: “I am happy to report that nearly all our major and smaller road improvement schemes are back up and working following full risk assessments.

“Of course, some essential work of course never stopped and I’d like to thank all the highways workers who have kept our roads safe throughout the COVID-19 pandemic.

“We know reliable roads are key to getting the Essex economy moving again. For public safety, we are switching some of the road surfacing schemes we had planned for residential areas this year, to main roads instead. Those local roads will still be repaired and will be included in the surfacing programme for next year.

“I must again thank the majority of drivers in Essex for staying at home during lockdown and only using the county’s road network for essential journeys.”

The impact of the pause to some highways work, combined with the need to work differently to before to protect highways crews and the public, will inevitably affect the completion dates for some schemes. However, Essex Highways remains committed to delivering as much of this year’s programme of work as planned.

As previously announced, Essex Highways is also in the process of introducing further measures to support local people to socially distance, by encouraging sustainable methods of transport, including walking and cycling, particularly in urban areas. The first developments of this work will be introduced in the coming weeks.

Road surfacing work is now also fully underway, with surface dressing and full resurfacing (night works) programmes operational. The second resurfacing team and the micro-surfacing crew started on Monday 18 May.

Please follow Essex Highways Twitter feed at https://twitter.com/essexhighways for daily updates and the programmes map at www.essex.gov.uk/surfacing for all planned work.

Please note that planned surfacing work is subject to weather, and delays may impact on subsequent schemes. Residents are encouraged to watch out for on-site sign boards alerting to work in the near future and particularly requests not to park on the road on the day.

Due to this work Ipswich Road South will be closed on Bank Holiday Monday, 25th May.

A vital part of the road improvement scheme on the A133 Ipswich Road to Harwich Road is to widen the roundabout at Ipswich Road.

More road space needs to be created and this can only be done by strengthening the road next to the railway line south of the A133, using piling.

Ipswich Road south is due to be closed for up to three weeks from the evening of 25th May to 15th June with the road expected to be reopened by 16th June. The road has to be closed while piling is done on the retaining wall for workforce and public safety.

Councillor Kevin Bentley, Deputy Leader of Essex County Council and Cabinet Member for Infrastructure, said: “The new layout of the roundabout requires steel and concrete piling to be inserted to support the retaining wall for the road. Space must be left between the piling operation and the public for safety, so Ipswich Road (south) will be closed during the work.

“By competing this major job while traffic volumes are lower we are minimising the impact on the network.  I am conscious that the roads are becoming busier again and we will re-open it as quickly as possible to keep inconvenience to a minimum for everyone.”

Work will be carried out between 7am and 8pm, however due to safety reasons the road closure is required at all times. Some of the works being undertaken will require the use of noisy equipment and may cause some disturbance, however we will try and complete these activities when they will cause the least inconvenience.

Full access will be maintained for local residents, pedestrians, cyclists and businesses, with signs indicating business open as usual wherever appropriate. A suitable signed diversion route will be provided.

Bus operators have been informed of the closures so that any necessary adjustments can be made to their services. Notices will be displayed on the affected bus stops and suitable temporary alternatives will be provided.
Please note that programmed dates may be subject to change, however the latest information will be displayed on advance warning signs on site.

We would encourage residents and businesses to also check the Essex Highways website for the latest updates including any changes to traffic management arrangements: www.essex.gov.uk/majorschemes (follow the link to the A133 Ipswich Road/Harwich Road improvement scheme, Colchester’).

You can also check the @Essexhighways twitter feed and one.network for information about other works in the area.

Braintree is one of the first areas where this trial will go ahead and grass verges in the central areas of the district will only be cut once a year instead of twice.

It is important that road safety is maintained and sightlines for all road users will be monitored, and if necessary limited cuts in critical safety areas would be carried out.

This is a joint initiative between Essex County Council and Braintree District Council.

Councillor Kevin Bentley, Deputy Leader of Essex County Council and Cabinet Member for Infrastructure said: “I’m delighted to support this plan to add to the existing “special verges” where wildlife protection takes priority and I certainly support extending it to other areas if it is successful. This is part of many ecological initiatives being coordinated by the County Council.” 

The initiative follows the successful Braintree Bypass roadside beautification project last year and includes the central parts of Braintree District combining rural and semi-rural/urban areas.  Braintree Council and some parishes carry out the verge cutting work, funded by Essex County Council as the Highway Authority

Cllr Wendy Schmitt, Braintree District Council’s Cabinet Member for Environment & Place said “I am delighted this trial is taking place I have campaigned for a number of years for better protection of rural verges, supported by Braintree District Council, as these are important havens for wildlife with many common and rare species of wildflowers, insects and animals. 

"Reducing grass verge cutting from twice yearly to a single cut in the Autumn will allow flowers to grow, and seed before grass cutting takes place. It is more important than ever to consider how we can give nature a ‘helping hand’ by protecting and preserving our natural environment for this and future generations”. 

As people return to work and start to visit shopping and retail centres again, social distancing protocols to stay two metres away from anyone who is not a member of your household will remain in place.

At present, many town and city centre roads in Essex are empty or have dramatically less traffic, although as lockdown restrictions get gradually lifted it is anticipated that traffic levels will increase, but perhaps not back to pre-coronavirus levels. However many pavements and cycleways in Essex are too narrow to allow social distancing, so change is necessary to encourage new, healthier ways of travelling locally.

In order to prioritise pedestrians and cyclists more, Essex Highways is planning to utilise empty road space by making temporary changes to the road network in Essex town and city centres. Essex County Council will be one of the first authorities to take these steps.

Cllr Kevin Bentley, Deputy Leader of Essex County Council and Cabinet Member for Infrastructure, said: “We have a responsibility to provide adequate physical distance in town and city centres to maintain social distancing and help prevent the spread of coronavirus. 

“The Government’s advice is that people who can work from home should continue to do so and we will continue to remind employers of this. 

“At the same time, for people who have no choice but to travel to work, journeys both on public transport and by car need to be managed and footways and cycle ways need to be safe and accommodate social distancing. 

“We want to help people get back to work and we want to help the economy get back up and running – we can do that by making it safer for people to get to retail and industrial areas. 

“Our longer-term ambition is to maintain lower levels of private car use in urban areas, so that walking and cycling becomes the preferred choice for shorter journeys. We’ll be talking to cycling groups in Essex to garner their input and this approach will also lead to an improvement in city and town centre air quality. 

“We can’t embark on a complete overhaul of the road network into Essex’s urban areas, but there are temporary cost-effective tweaks we can make to the road layout which will improve access to our town and city centres for people who are walking, cycling or using public transport.” 

Among the changes being considered for many town centres are:

• Using barriers to create temporary space to allow physical distancing of 2m on footways and public spaces.
• Creating temporary walking and cycling lanes to enable access to central areas on foot or by bike using cones and barriers.
• Ensuring signalised crossing sequences are set to help physical distancing whilst people are waiting to cross on the footway.
• Introducing “Thrifty Innovations” - temporary infrastructure that can expand the public space on a trial basis as part of an ‘innovate, test and learn’ approach.
• Removing some lanes for motor traffic
• Creating waiting areas on shopping streets
• Removing through motor traffic from residential streets (and other roads where possible) allowing people to walk in the street with greater safety.
• Amending push-buttons at signal crossings to allow more time for pedestrians and cyclists.
• Work with Essex Police and other partners to encourage safer use of our highways network generally. For example, there has been a noticeable increase in vehicle speeds making pedestrian and cycle use less safe.
• Assist as much as possible with the reintroduction of bus and rail services in a way which promotes their safe usage.
• Ensure that traffic levels do not increase to the extent they inhibit the movement of people, goods and services through increased congestion, pollution and carbon emissions.

Plans to promote this approach are being drawn up for a range of areas in Essex, and more detail will emerge on specific proposals in the coming days and weeks.

Public messages will be published on-line as plans are confirmed and measures agreed.

Jackson Civil Engineering have removed road works at Sheepcotes Roundabout this week. The improved road scheme provides a new dedicated left turn slip from Braintree Road to the A130, an increase in the roundabout’s capacity and has widened the roundabout approach on Essex Regiment Way to two lanes.

These improvements were part of the Chelmsford to Braintree Route-based Strategy, which benefited from an investment of £7.3 million by Essex County Council and the Government’s Local Growth fund via the South East Local Enterprise Partnership.

Highway improvement works along this route have been phased over a period of three years and included works to Essex Regiment Way, Deres Bridge, Nabbotts Roundabout and finally Sheepcotes Roundabouts, to implement capacity and safety improvements as well as the improvements made to bus lanes.

Cllr Bentley, Deputy Leader of Essex County Council and Cabinet Member for Infrastructure, said: “It is pleasing to see the final phase in the series of improvements completed on this important corridor between Braintree and Chelmsford.

“The improvements will not only support future economic growth in the area, but will also ease the burden on those who already commute through the area and use public transport on a regular basis.”

The main contractor for the scheme, Eurovia, has reviewed the situation and is preparing for a phased return to work.

New ways of working and checks that supplier companies can provide materials, equipment and staff, offer the chance to resume some of the work. The phased return will initially focus on work activities which can be done safely while observing social distancing.

This pause in work has allowed Eurovia to fully review each of its method statements and risk assessments to ensure that they reflect the new ways of working which comply with current industry guidance. Additional equipment will be installed including extra welfare facilities, but also more mechanised equipment to support isolated working before the site workforce returns.

Councillor Kevin Bentley, Deputy Leader of Essex County Council and Cabinet Member for Infrastructure, said: “Contractors have absolute responsibility for their staff and the public’s safety and welfare in this current extreme situation, that’s why I supported their decision to suspend work until they could be certain it is safe to resume. 

“I’m pleased on behalf of Colchester residents that work will now continue on this major infrastructure project."

Further updates will be provided once available. Information about the Ipswich to Harwich Rd scheme in Colchester is available at www.essex.gov.uk/highwayschemes 

The strong plea from Essex Highways is to ‘Please keep it up.’

With strict social distancing rules in place, highways teams are still out on the county’s roads making repairs and improvements to keep main routes safe for emergency services, for supplies to move and to enable key workers to carry out their critical roles.

It is important to reassure the public that Essex Highways is very strictly following Government restrictions on social distancing when working on site. Road maintenance has been classified as an essential service. Therefore, temporary new road signs have been issued which explain that staff are delivering critical works and calling on local residents to please respect the teams while they are on-site.

Cllr Kevin Bentley, Essex County Council’s Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Infrastructure comments “I remain very grateful to everyone in Essex for staying at home and not using our network except when essential.

“I also remain very proud of the duty our highways teams continue to demonstrate, keeping the roads and pavements in safe working order wherever possible for all of us at this difficult time. Please do give our workers space, for their safety as well as yours – however a friendly wave is always welcome!

“Our work programme is constantly under review as the effects of the lockdown continues. With better weather we would normally be gearing up to carry out many repairs and improvements across the county. We are now carefully looking at our plans and taking into consideration the availability of specialist contractors, staff and materials.” 
Members of the public are encouraged to continue reporting defects online at www.essex.gov.uk/highways

The Essex Highways team is currently experiencing a high volume of calls and so residents are asked not to call unless they spot an urgent road safety issue.

For updates relating to roads and travel, please visit www.essex.gov.uk/highways or follow us on Twitter at www.twitter.com/essexhighways and www.twitter.com/Essex_Travel

Visit www.essex.gov.uk for updates on other Essex County Council services.

Traffic data shows that on Tuesday 25 March, the day after the Prime Minister’s announcement of more extreme measures, traffic was a down 53% compared to the same time last year. This continued to increase throughout the week, reaching a 60% reduction compared to last year by Thursday, the last day for which current data is available. 

With initial reports from Italy and Spain starting to show that, if adhered to rigorously, current measures can have an impact it’s more important than ever than we continue to observe government guidance so that our Country can see improvement in the coming weeks and months. 

However, Deputy Leader of Essex County Council and Cabinet Member for Infrastructure, Cllr Kevin Bentley had a clear message for the County: “While it’s great to see such a reduction in travel, it’s critical that this continues to decrease, and that residents stay at home. Let’s ‘not forget that in Italy and Spain the restrictions were much more stringent, with permits required to leave home and a ban on exercise outside the home.”

An important reminder to Essex residents of just how critically important it is that we follow Government guidance and only leave home for one of four reasons:

• Shopping for basic necessities, for example food and medicine, which must be as infrequent as possible.
• One form of exercise a day, for example a run, walk, or cycle - alone or with members of your household.
• Any medical need, or to provide care or to help a vulnerable person.
• Travelling to and from work, but only where this absolutely cannot be done from home.

Stay safe Essex. Stay home. Save lives.

The latest advice on coronavirus (COVID-19) is available on the Public Health England (PHE) and NHS websites or via www.essex.gov.uk/coronavirus

You can find out about impacts on our services on the Essex County Council website.

The suspension of these services is in response to strict government guidance urging people to stay in their homes and only travel when absolutely necessary, to prevent the spread of the virus.

The service, and sites at both Chelmsford and Colchester, will remain closed until further notice.

Deputy Leader of Essex County Council and Cabinet Member for Infrastructure, Cllr Kevin Bentley said: “While we seek to retain public transport services for individuals who are making essential journeys, those using the Park and Ride have access to a car, so will have an alternative mode of transport available should they need it.

“Our Park and Ride services are valued, high quality and sustainable services, however during this crisis we need to use our resources wisely which means deploying resources to support commercial bus services where passengers on these services may have no other options available."

“The closures will be for as short a time as possible as we know how valued the service is. We look forward to welcoming back our regular travellers and hopefully new ones when it re-opens”

Essex County Council has been working closely with both Broomfield and Colchester Hospitals to ensure key workers who use the Park and Ride services have suitable alternatives available to them.

The latest advice on coronavirus (COVID-19) is available on the Public Health England (PHE) and NHS websites or via www.essex.gov.uk/coronavirus

You can find out about impacts on our services on the Essex County Council website.

While most repair work will continue for as long as it is possible, Essex Highways’ planned programme of more extensive improvements is being reviewed in light of the unprecedented situation the country is in.

Cllr Kevin Bentley, Essex County Council’s Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Infrastructure, said: “It is vital that, during these extraordinary times we do everything we can to continue supporting our emergency services colleagues and critical key workers who need to use our county ’s roads in order to carry out their important work.

“However, we must ensure we are doing so in ways that are safe for our employees and members of the public, and that also consider the likely impact of the current situation on availability of workers, materials and equipment going forward.

“This is an extremely fast-moving situation which we are constantly reviewing. We continue to adhere to advice from the government and adjust our work accordingly. This includes the need to maintain appropriate social distancing within our workforce.

“I am so proud of all of our Essex Highways employees and the dedication they have and continue to show at such an uncertain time.”

Essex Highways is also working with utility companies and developers to see if any changes need to be made to planned work. As of today (25 March 2020), existing roadworks will generally remain in place.

If advice from the Government changes, Essex Highways will reconsider its current approach.

Members of the public are encouraged to continue reporting defects online at www.essexhighways.org/transport-and-roads/tell-us/problem-check.aspx.

The Essex Highways team is currently experiencing a high volume of calls and so residents are asked not to call unless they spot an urgent road safety issue.

For updates relating to roads and travel, as well as other Essex County Council services, please visit www.essex.gov.uk or follow us on social media.

The funding will be used to realign the eastern section of the A12 between Junctions 24 and 25, provide a new junction for the Garden Community and add capacity for a fourth lane between junctions 23 and 24. This commitment to infrastructure could help unlock up to 20,931 homes as part of the North Essex Garden Community project.

The project is in addition to the widening, junction and alignment works which have already been committed by Highways England for the A12.

The news has been welcomed by the four councils behind the North Essex Garden Communities Project; Essex County, Colchester Borough, Braintree District, and Tendring District Councils.

Providing vital infrastructure is integral to the plans of the three proposed Garden Communities across North Essex.

Cllr David Finch, Leader of Essex County Council, said: “This is welcome news. The A12 realignment is a key element in the unlocking of homes within the Colchester/Braintree Garden Community and I am pleased the Government has recognised its significance.”

Cllr Graham Butland, Leader of Braintree District Council, said: “I am delighted with this huge investment in Essex which affects the district so directly.  As a Council we have consistently said that growth in the District and across North Essex must be accompanied by significant infrastructure improvements. This announcement from Government shows that our representations have been heard and acted upon. The challenge for us is to ensure that we repay the Government’s faith in the area by moving forward with our plans.”

Cllr Mark Cory, Leader of Colchester Borough Council, said: “We have always stated that these communities must be infrastructure first. This announcement is a major step towards this.”

Cllr Neil Stock, Leader of Tendring District Council, said: “This announcement shows the Government is just as determined as we are to deliver greater economic prosperity for North Essex, with the Garden Communities programme at the heart of our ambition. We have always stated that ‘infrastructure first’ is a key principle of our approach and this commitment to funding major transport infrastructure is a tremendous step forward.”

The steel and concrete flyover is being taken down section by section and transported away for dismantling and recycling.

Most of the works are being carried out overnight between the hours of 9.30pm and 5.30am, Monday to Friday, to minimise disruption.

However, daytime works were required on Sunday (8 March) to break out the large concrete ramp in Essex Yeomanry Way due to anticipated loud noise. Further daytime works will be required this Sunday (15 March) to break out the remaining ramp in Parkway and lane restrictions will be in place.

The planned road restrictions are as follows:

• Night of and Wednesday 11 March - Full closure of A1060 Parkway in both directions (Parkway exit slip lane to A138 Chelmer Road will remain open)
• Sunday 15 March - Daytime lane restrictions with carriageway reduced to one lane on roundabout and approaches/exits

Appropriate diversions will be in place. The closure of several bus stops in the area will be required during the overnight road closure. Public notices are in place at the affected bus stops and bus diversions will be in place.
Dismantling activities are currently scheduled to be completed by Friday, 20 March and will be followed by works to close the cross over areas at either end of the flyover. It is anticipated these works will start on Monday 30 March and require temporary overnight lane restrictions, however details are still being finalised and will be confirmed soon.

Cllr Kevin Bentley, Deputy Leader of Essex County Council and Cabinet Member for Infrastructure, said: “We have already seen a significant change to the city’s skyline and I am very pleased the works are progressing so well.

“The Army and Navy is a crucial gateway to Chelmsford, and we are also continuing to work as quickly as we can to develop a long-term solution at the junction.

“It is vital that we achieve the right scheme for the city, its residents and businesses, and we will be updating partners on our progress in the coming weeks.”

For the latest information about the flyover removal works, including latest details about proposed traffic restrictions, visit www.essex.gov.uk/highwayschemes

For further information about the long-term solution for the Army and Navy junction and to sign up for the project email newsletter, visit www.essex.gov.uk/armyandnavy

The only authority in the country to have two successful bids, ECC will receive £380,000 to support with costs associated with the removal of the Army and Navy flyover in Chelmsford and £1million to invest in maintenance of Braintree town centre.

Cllr Kevin Bentley, ECC’s Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Infrastructure, said: “I am thrilled by today’s announcement from the Department of Transport and pleased the Government has recognised the importance of investing in Essex by funding two significant projects across the county. We are the only Local Authority in the country to be successful with two separate bids.

“The additional funding to cover the cost of current Army and Navy removal works will free up much needed funds which we can invest in establishing a long-term solution for this busy junction which sits at the heart of our county.

“Investment in Braintree town centre is also testament to the role of local high streets – the life blood of our communities - and how important it is that we continue to maintain them now and in the future so that they can thrive.”

Read more about the announcement at gov.uk.

The steel and concrete structure is being removed section by section and transported away for dismantling and recycling, with five of the 15 spans now successfully removed.

The majority of the works are being carried out overnight between the hours of 9.30pm and 5.30am, Monday to Friday, to minimise disruption. Due to the crane and other heavy equipment needed to carry out the works, temporary lane restrictions and road closures are needed at various stages.

The proposed road restrictions for the next phase of works are as follows:

Nights of Wednesday 26, Thursday 27, Friday 28 February and Monday 2, Tuesday 3 March - Full closure of A1114 Essex Yeomanry Way in both directions

Nights of Wednesday 4 and Thursday 5 March - Closures on Van Diemans Road inbound (towards roundabout) and A1060 Parkway in both directions (Parkway exit slip lane to A138 Chelmer Road will remain open)

Nights of Friday 6, Monday 9, Tuesday 10 and Wednesday 11 March - Full closure of A1060 Parkway in both directions (Parkway exit slip lane to A138 Chelmer Road will remain open)

Sunday 8 and Sunday 15 March - Daytime lane restrictions with carriageway reduced to one lane on roundabout and approaches/exits

Road users are encouraged to check signage and the Essex Highways website as these arrangements may change at short notice.

Appropriate diversions will be in place during any road closures. Some bus services will be impacted during the works. Please contact the bus operators for more information.

Pedestrian access will be maintained in the area throughout the works, which are on track to be completed in April 2020.

Cllr Kevin Bentley, Deputy Leader of Essex County Council and Cabinet Member for Infrastructure, said: “The flyover has been a well-known feature of Chelmsford for more than 40 years and we have already seen a big change to the city’s skyline following the works that have taken place so far.

“The project is progressing very well and I would like to thank people for their continued patience and understanding while these crucial works are completed.

“The Army and Navy is a vital gateway to Chelmsford and removing the flyover is an important step as we seek to make long-term improvements to the junction and create a lasting and sustainable legacy.

“With Chelmsford continuing to grow, other roads in the city centre already near capacity and a lack of space, we must encourage more people to think differently about how they travel, particularly for shorter journeys which are currently made by car.

“We understand people want a solution as quickly as possible and steps are being taken to speed things up wherever we can, however we must also follow Government processes and ensure we achieve the right scheme for Chelmsford.”

For the latest information about the flyover removal works, including latest details about proposed traffic restrictions, visit www.essex.gov.uk/highwayschemes and search: ‘A1060/A1114 Army and Navy Flyover’.

For further information about the long-term solution for the Army and Navy junction and to sign up for the project email newsletter, visit www.essex.gov.uk/armyandnavy.

The approval decision is now in a three-day call-in period.

In 2012, Essex County Council entered into partnership with Ringway Jacobs to upkeep and maintain its Highways division, looking after the 5,000 miles of roads, 4,000 miles of pavements, 4,000 miles of public rights of way, 127,000 streetlights and 1,500 highways structures such as bridges.

The contract was initially signed for 10 years to 2022 and contained an option for Councillors to extend the contract for a further five years if desired.

Today, a meeting of Essex County Council’s Cabinet approved the take up of an option to extend the contract for another five years, allowing investment in the network of approximately £700m over that time period.

All ECC Cabinet decisions are subject to a three-day call-in period. This means that if a councillor who sits on a scrutiny committee asks for the decision to be reversed or reviewed it must be looked at by a Committee.

The scheme, which is set to deliver a major economic boost to the city and Essex as a whole, will go on show ahead of the bypass planning application early next year.

With a 2024 opening date target, engineers are progressing designs for the Chelmsford North East Bypass, between the A12 and A131, as well as the new Beaulieu Railway station, which is scheduled for 2025/26.

Together the projects support the creation of over 14,000 new homes in the Chelmsford to Braintree corridor, including a proposed new garden village, with sustainable developments in North East Chelmsford, Broomfield, Great Leighs and Great Notley.

Speaking after councillors and local officials were briefed about progress with the scheme, Cllr Kevin Bentley, Deputy Leader of Essex County Council and Cabinet Member for Infrastructure, said: “Make no mistake we are fully committed to delivering the bypass and railway station.

“Chelmsford is part of a growing county and, as a driver of the regional economy, needs a transport network to match if it is to properly facilitate development and economic growth.

“That’s why at Essex County Council, in partnership with the city council, and in collaboration with Network Rail, we are delivering this scheme.”

The road and rail upgrade has been made possible following the award of nearly £218m in funding from the Government’s Housing Infrastructure Fund, plus £34m of other funding from the South East Local Enterprise Partnership and developer Countryside Zest.

Now the project is coming to reality Cllr Bentley said everyone would be given an opportunity to provide feedback on the final scheme.

He said: “We have held previous public consultations and it is our clear intention to present final plans to local representatives and the public ahead of the planning application.

“This is essential to a scheme that will ease congestion and improve traffic flow, provide a better rail service, support housing and jobs growth, and encourage sustainable travel.

“It will also provide a strategic link between Chelmsford, Braintree, Stansted and the wider area, creating a location that is well connected to Essex and London as well as the East and South East of England.”

Cllr Stephen Robinson, Leader of Chelmsford City Council, said: "Chelmsford has been expecting a new station for very many years and delivering that is vital to improving sustainable transport options. We hope it will be delivered as soon as possible."

For more information about the scheme visit www.essex.gov.uk/cnebypass

Ipswich Road South to reopen later this week

Ipswich Road (south) in Colchester will be reopened this week ahead of schedule.

Essex Highways are now preparing to get the road reinstated and reopened to traffic.

Workers will have to return in the future to complete the wall strengthening and planners are looking at how to minimise any future impact.

Essex Highways are proactively opening the road this week, planned for Thursday morning, and further updates will be provided in due course as we know more.

Cllr Kevin Bentley, Deputy Leader of Essex County Council and Cabinet Member for Infrastructure, said: “By opening Ipswich Road (south) this week it will benefit local residents and businesses. Please continue to support our brilliant local businesses who are open as usual.”

"We will continue to explore every possible way to minimise the impact of the works and reduce the traffic management cones and barriers."

In 2012, Essex County Council entered into partnership with Ringway Jacobs to upkeep and maintain its Highways division, looking after the 5,000 miles of roads, 4,000 miles of pavements, 4,000 miles of public rights of way, 127,000 streetlights and 1,500 highways structures such as bridges.

The recommendation points to the unrivalled industry expertise, internal buying power and technical excellence of parent companies Eurovia UK and Jacobs in improving roads, footways and highways infrastructure, as well as providing value for money.

The contract was initially signed for 10 years to 2022 and contained an option for Councillors to extend the contract for a further five years if desired.

Since 2012, the Essex Highways partnership between the County Council and Ringway Jacobs has delivered;

• 2,002 miles of road re-surfacing,
• 15,000 miles of roads inspected each year,
• an average of 37,000 street lighting defects dealt with each year,
• an average of 70 miles of pavements surfaced each year,
• an average of 100,000 drains, keeping roads free from excess rainwater, cleaned each year,
• an ongoing LED streetlight and illuminated signs conversion programme, and:
• over 51,000 people following updates from the Essex traffic control centre.

Papers also highlight recent benchmarking against the wider market, which revealed work including road surfacing, pavement repair and maintenance and drain clearing work delivered by Ringway Jacobs for Essex Highways was significantly cheaper than alternatives across a range of activity.

Having continuously met performance and efficiency targets, the partnership has also been recognised by the British Standards Institute, achieving BS11000 collaborative business relationship accreditation in 2014.

The Council’s Cabinet will be asked to approve the take up of an option to extend the contract for another five years, allowing investment in the network of approximately £700m over that time period.

Cllr Kevin Bentley, Deputy Leader of Essex Council and Cabinet Member for Infrastructure, said: “This is a healthy, robust working partnership, which is rigorously monitored.

“It is delivering improvement to the roads, pavements and cycleways of Essex and it is delivering savings to the taxpayers of Essex.

“I look forward to discussing the extension of the contract with my cabinet colleagues.”

Site set-up and preparation works have already been taking place throughout this week in readiness for the arrival of a 100-tonne crane on Monday night, ahead of the first lift of one of the structure’s spans the following evening.

The steel and concrete structure will be removed section by section and transported away for dismantling and recycling. Due to the heavy equipment needed to carry out the works, temporary lane restrictions and road closures will be in place at various stages.

The majority of the works will be carried out overnight between the hours of 9.30pm and 5.30am, Monday to Friday, to minimise disruption. However, some Sunday daytime working will be required later in the programme, with works expected to be completed in April.

In the meantime, Essex County Council is continuing to develop a long-term solution for the junction and the removal of the flyover is an important step.

Cllr Kevin Bentley, Deputy Leader of Essex County Council and Cabinet Member for Infrastructure, was joined by members of the Army and Navy Task Force and dignitaries today to mark the start of the milestone project.
He said: “The flyover has been a well-known feature of the Chelmsford skyline for more than 40 years and its removal is a historic milestone for the city.

“The Army and Navy is a crucial gateway to Chelmsford and removing the flyover is an important step as we seek to make long-term improvements to the junction and create a lasting and sustainable legacy.

“With Chelmsford continuing to grow, other roads in the city centre already near capacity and a lack of space, we must encourage more people to think differently about how they travel, particularly for shorter journeys which are currently made by car.

“The Department for Transport has already emphasised the importance of sustainable transport in any final scheme and this will be critical, alongside any junction improvements.

“We understand people want a solution as quickly as possible and steps are being taken to speed things up wherever we can, however we must also follow Government processes and ensure we achieve the right scheme for Chelmsford.”

The council is carefully monitoring the weather forecast and the potential impact of Storm Dennis as windy conditions could impact the use of the crane and the wider works programme.

For the latest information about the works, including details about proposed traffic restrictions, visit the ‘A1060/A1114 Army and Navy Flyover’ page.

For further information about the long term solution for the Army and Navy junction and to sign up for the project email newsletter, visit: www.essex.gov.uk/armyandnavy.

Delivering the strategically important new access from the M11, the works will see a new junction and link road created, connecting the motorway with Gilden Way, east of Harlow, and creating a new east-west link through the town, helping boost the local economy.

Cllr Kevin Bentley, Deputy Leader of Essex County Council and Cabinet Member for Infrastructure, said: “This is a critically important piece of new infrastructure which we have been working with partners for a number of years to help make a reality.

“This new junction will not only be a boost to the thousands of people who are travelling into and out of Harlow on a daily basis through alleviating some of the congestion issues in the town, but offers new public transport opportunities and will help further unlock the economic potential of Harlow through supporting business growth in the area.”

Harlow MP Robert Halfon added: "I would like to thank Essex County Council and Cllr Bentley for all the hard work they have put in to deliver Junction 7A. This is a major project that will greatly reduce the traffic burden on Harlow residents.

"I worked hard for many years in Parliament in order to persuade the Government to invest in the junction and I am extremely grateful to the former Transport Secretary for authorising it.

"This is yet more proof that the Government are investing in Harlow. With our new hospital, new road junction, the £600m move of Public Health England to Harlow, our Enterprise zone and the up to £25m to regenerate our town - we are building an even better Harlow."

Funded through Highways England, the Department for Transport, Essex County Council and the South East Local Enterprise Partnership, the scheme is located between Junctions 7 and 8 of the M11. It will see the existing B183 widened, creating an additional lane heading westbound and providing two lanes to the existing London Road Roundabout which links to the A414. This will be supported by the conversion of the existing Churchgate Roundabout on the B183 into a ‘hamburger’ style arrangement with traffic lights installed and the existing local road network connected via the creation of a new Campions Roundabout.

The project follows last year’s works in Gilden Way which saw existing utilities diverted, enabling the main works to be undertaken.

Newly appointed contractor GRAHAM will now begin the detailed design work with its design partner AECOM, ahead of beginning full construction.

On the award of the contract, Stephen Hand, Pre-Construction Director of the GRAHAM Civil Engineering division, said: “We’re pleased to have been awarded this hugely beneficial highways scheme by Essex County Council which is the latest in our growing portfolio of highway improvement schemes.

“The project will reduce congestion and improve access to Harlow’s road network, creating economic growth and improving connectivity for residents, businesses, and visitors to Harlow.”

Julie Crawford, Regional Delivery Director (East) for Highways England, added: “Highways England is pleased to be supporting these plans to build an additional junction on the M11 at Harlow. We are confident that, once delivered, this new junction will contribute towards improving safety and reducing congestion, two of Highways England’s top priorities.”

Construction is expected to commence on Gilden Way/Sheering Road in late spring 2020, with works on the motorway junction and link road likely to start in summer/autumn 2020.

The new junction is planned to open in 2022.

For more information, visit www.essex.gov.uk/junction7a

The project will begin on Monday 10 February, with the majority of the works being carried out overnight between the hours of 9.30pm and 5.30am, Monday to Friday, to minimise disruption. However, some Sunday daytime working will be required later in the programme.

The steel structure will be removed section by section and transported away for dismantling and recycling.  Due to the heavy equipment needed to carry out the works, temporary lane restrictions and road closures will be in place at various stages.

During February the following carriageway restrictions are expected to apply between 9.30pm and 5.30am, however road users are encouraged to check signage as arrangements may change at short notice:

• Week commencing Monday 10 February:
• Daytime working with no carriageway restrictions

• From Tuesday 18 February onwards as required (Monday to Friday):
• Overnight lane restrictions reducing the carriageway to one lane on the roundabout and approaches/exits.

• Nights of Monday 24 February and Tuesday 25 February:
• Full closure of A1114 Essex Yeomanry Way in both directions
• Baddow Road closed outbound (travelling away from roundabout)
• A138 Chelmer Road closed inbound (travelling towards roundabout/city)

• Nights of Wednesday 26, Thursday 27, Friday 28 February and Monday 2, Tuesday 3 March:
• Full closure of A1114 Essex Yeomanry Way in both directions

During any planned road closures, appropriate diversions will be in place suited to all vehicles. Pedestrian access will be maintained in the area throughout the works, which are expected to be completed in April 2020.

Essex County Council is continuing to develop a long-term solution for the junction and is now close to completing a Strategic Outline Business Case – an important milestone in accessing Department for Transport (DfT) funding for the scheme.

Cllr Kevin Bentley, Deputy Leader of Essex County Council and Cabinet Member for Infrastructure, said: “The Army and Navy flyover has been a well-known feature of the Chelmsford skyline for 40 years and its removal will be a historic milestone for the city.

“Of course, we recognise that the works will cause some disruption and, together with the contractor, Clarke Demolition Company Limited, we will be doing everything possible to minimise any inconvenience caused.

“The Army and Navy is a crucial gateway to Chelmsford and we are also continuing to assess potential options for a long-term solution at the junction.

“We understand people want a solution as quickly as possible and steps are being taken to speed things up wherever we can, however we must also follow Government processes and ensure we achieve the best scheme for Chelmsford.”

For more information about the arrangements in place to dismantle the Army and Navy flyover, including latest details on proposed traffic restrictions, visit: www.essex.gov.uk/highwayschemes and search: ‘A1060/A1114 Army and Navy Flyover’.

For further details about the long term solution for the Army and Navy junction and to sign up for the project email newsletter, visit: www.essex.gov.uk/armyandnavy

Roadside tests have shown that a section of the A127 between east and west Basildon exceeds national air quality safe limits for nitrogen dioxide.

To reduce exhaust emissions and improve air quality, Essex County Council is reducing the speed limit from national speed limit to 50mph on the A127.

The new limit will be in place on both carriageways between the existing 40mph speed limit near the Fortune of War roundabout and approximately 470m east of the Pound Lane (westbound) and Cranfield Park Road (eastbound) junctions.

Vehicles’ engines work more efficiently at about 50mph and lowering speeds from 70mph to 50mph can reduce harmful nitrogen oxide emissions from car exhausts by up to 20 per cent.

Overnight works to introduce the new limit, which include replacing road signs and installing average speed cameras, are scheduled to start on Monday 27 January and planned to take approximately six weeks.

Temporary lane restrictions will be in place between 9pm and 5am to enable crews to work safely at the roadside, with traffic reduced to one lane overnight.

Some individual road closures will also be required in order to calibrate average speed cameras, and signed diversion routes will be provided.

Details of the road closures are still being finalised and information will be available online shortly at: www.essexhighways.org/highway-schemes-and-developments/highway-schemes/a127-basildon-air-quality.aspx.

The new 50mph speed limit will come into force as soon as the works commence on Monday 27 January.

Cllr Kevin Bentley, Essex County Council’s Cabinet Member for Infrastructure, said: “Reducing potentially harmful vehicle emissions is vitally important, not only in protecting the environment, but also for the health of our residents.

“Air quality is linked to a number of health problems and is estimated to cost the UK about than £20billion every year.

“By lowering the speed limit, we can reduce vehicle emissions on this stretch of the A127 and bring air quality to safe levels by 2021, as well as improving road safety and journey time reliability.

“We all have a part to play in protecting the planet and, where possible, I would also encourage people to consider swapping some car journeys for more sustainable travel such as walking, cycling or using public transport.”

Leader of Basildon Council, Councillor Gavin Callaghan said: “The quality of air in our borough is of great concern to all of us. A reduction of the speed limit to 50mph is a key step in bringing a substantial improvement to the air quality in this area. However, if a charging clean air zone was imposed in Basildon it would serve only to damage our businesses and livelihoods and push the problem to other areas like the Basildon stretch of the A13.

“Many of our local businesses are already demonstrating their commitment to improving air quality by altering deliveries to times outside of rush hour and replacing their fleets with hybrid and Euro 6 compliant vehicles.”

For more information about the project, please visit www.essex.gov.uk/airquality.

Essex County Council announced in September that the flyover in Chelmsford would be permanently closed on safety grounds after a detailed engineering report revealed new defects within its concrete foundations.

The council has since been pressing ahead with plans to have the structure removed as soon as possible while work is also continuing to develop a long-term solution for the junction.

Clarke Demolition Company Limited has now been appointed to carry out the flyover removal, with the works expected to begin in early February.

The steel structure will be safely dismantled section by section, removed from the site and, where possible, recycled. It is anticipated that the majority of the works will take place at night to minimise disruption, although some Sunday closures will be required.

The project is expected to be completed in April 2020, with further details about the works schedule to be confirmed shortly.

Cllr Kevin Bentley, Deputy Leader of Essex County Council and Cabinet Member for Infrastructure, said: “I am delighted to be working with Clarke Demolition on this important project and look forward to works starting in February.

“The Army and Navy flyover has been a well-known feature of the Chelmsford skyline for 40 years and its removal will be a historic milestone for the city. Of course, we recognise that the works will cause some disruption and, together with the contractor, we will be doing everything possible to minimise any inconvenience caused.

“The Army and Navy is a crucial gateway to Chelmsford and we are also continuing to assess potential options for a long-term solution at the junction.

“Steps are already being taken to reduce the programme, however we must also ensure we get it right so that any improvements encourage more sustainable travel and avoid putting additional pressure on other roads in the city centre.”

David Clarke, Managing Director of Clarke Demolition Company Limited, added: “We are delighted to be involved with the removal of this local landmark.

“Having also removed the old viaduct over the River Chelmer in 2016, it is a matter of great pride to have the opportunity once again to continue helping with the improvements being made in the region.“We will work as safely and quickly as possible, out of normal working hours to minimise any disruption to the public.”

For more information about the project and to subscribe to the Army and Navy e-newsletter, please visit: www.essex.gov.uk/armyandnavy.

To help support the city’s residents and businesses, a special £5 group offer remains available throughout the winter at both the Sandon and Chelmer Valley Park and Rides. For more information, visit www.essex.gov.uk/parkandride.