Yet more roadworks as 11-day total closure for A6 bridge included in resurfacing works across north Northants
Roadworks will take place across five locations in north Northamptonshire during the summer, in an effort to ‘futureproof’ the surfaces at a time when roads typically see less traffic due to the summer holidays.
Among the closures is the bridge over the A6 near Irthlingborough, which will be subject to a full 24/7 closure for 11 days, from July 31 at 8pm until August 10 at 6am.
During the closure, North Northants Council’s (NNC) highways team will remove the existing surfacing and re- waterproof a section of the bridge deck, apply a new spray-applied waterproofing system, and carry out concrete repairs where required.
Cllr Chris McGiffen, NNC’s executive member for highways and travel, said: “We know roadworks at any time are disruptive for motorists which is why we always try to plan larger scale works for traditionally quieter times.
"Through close coordination and forward planning, we have been able to manage these projects to ensure that multiple activities can be delivered effectively. This includes working during off-peak hours and using the right traffic management for the works.
"I would still encourage motorists to plan ahead, follow any diversion routes and be patient whilst we undertake these vital works.”
Closures will also take place on the A6003 between the Oakley roundabout and the A43 Geddington bypass from Monday, July 27 to Friday, July 31 for street cleansing, adjustment to ironworks, repairs to laybys, vegetation clearance, and litter picking between the hours of 9.30am and 3.30pm.
Full resurfacing works will take place in Pytchley Road, Kettering from July 25 to August 23 between 9.30am and 3.30pm, Monday to Friday, with advance signage and diversion routes in place near Wicksteed Park.
Further works will take place in Bridge Street, Thrapston to refurbish the traffic lights on the bridge between 9.30am and 3.30pm from July 20 to July 31.
Also scheduled are changes to the road layout in Blackpot Lane in Oundle to help reduce congestion on August 11, from 8am until 5pm.
The council has chosen summer as the time for repairs as it is believed roads are ‘traditionally quieter’ due to schools breaking up for the summer holidays, and the timing will ‘maximise efficiency and reduce impact on motorists.’
Cllr Martin Griffiths, leader of the council, added: “I hope residents and motorists are starting to see real improvements on many stretches of roads across North Northamptonshire and this programme of works across the summer is the next step.
“We know there is so much more to do, but we are committed to proper repairs, planned maintenance and an improved quality of work.”