Image demonstrating Progress made over A69 roadwork concerns

Progress made over A69 roadwork concerns

Positive progress is being made on traffic management arrangements during the major A69 Bridge End roundabout works in Hexham.

It comes after Northumberland County Council raised concerns last month with Highways England, over traffic management plans while upgrading the junction.

This scheme, which means traffic travelling on the A69 can continue straight along instead of using the roundabout will reduce congestion and improve journey times and safety at the junction.

The Council has held productive meetings with Highways England (HE) to try and overcome the concerns and HE has agreed to review elements of the traffic management proposals.
 
Another meeting will be held to consider the revised proposals which aim to minimise disruption as far as is reasonably practical during the construction of the junction.

In particular the changes will look at minimising disruption for people heading to Hexham from the west and will also see HE and the county council working together to minimise the impact on the local network.

Some of the key issues are around managing traffic in and around the busy French Garden Industrial Estate, with a number of temporary layout options being considered on the back of the discussions.
 
Further consideration is also being given to the traffic management arrangements at the A69/A6079 Acomb junction and Hexham West End A69/B6531 junction.

Councillor Peter Jackson, Leader of Northumberland County Council, said: “We are now making positive progress with Highways England on this scheme after initially having some serious concerns.

“Our aim throughout this process has been to minimise disruption to the travelling public and local residents and businesses. As with any major roadworks there’s always going to be some hold-ups and diversions, but we feel these latest proposals go some way to mitigating these issues.

“We are pleased that HE are listening to our concerns but obviously need to see the outcome of the ongoing discussions before the Council can fully commit to this scheme.”

Mark Ramsden, Programme Delivery Lead for Highways England said: “We are happy to work with NCC on their concerns and are pleased that we are moving this important scheme forward that will benefit drivers and the local area in the long-term.

"Further meetings are taking place to discuss the upcoming traffic management plans at Bridge End. Initial conversations have been positive and we will continue until a way forward can be found that balances delivery of the scheme, safety of road workers and road users, and mitigates concerns around traffic disruption.

"The plans will need to keep traffic moving, keep drivers and road workers safe while considering any impact on residents and businesses. As soon as plans are finalised Highways England will be letting residents, businesses and other interested parties know."

Highways England will monitor the traffic management arrangements once they are in place for the duration of the work and to pick up and tackle any issues which arise.
 
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