November 21, 2017 1.22 pm This story is over 76 months old

Lane closures on A17 Sleaford Bypass for embankment repairs

Some major repair works.
The A17 Sleaford Bypass. | Photo: Google Street View

Lanes will be closed on both sides of the A17 on the Sleaford Bypass for maintenance work on the embankment.

Works to protect the bank from deterioration over upcoming years are due to start on Monday, November 27, ending by the end of April 2018.

British construction firm, Eurovia Contracting North, will be carrying out the £2.4 million repairs which include large scale drainage improvements and measures introduced to stabilise the remainder of the bank.

Lane closures will be in place on both directions of the A17 Sleaford Bypass from Monday, November 27 to Monday, December 4.

From December 4, westbound lanes will be closed for six weeks, subject to reasonable weather.

During this time, westbound traffic will be diverted to a lane on the eastbound carriageway.

Following the westbound repair works, the eastbound section of carriageway will be closed for six weeks, with eastbound traffic moved to a lane on the westbound carriageway.

Single lane closures in both directions will then be put back in place for the remainder of the works.

Two-way traffic will be maintained at all times, but in one lane rather than two in each direction.

A speed restriction of 30mph will be enforced throughout the project.

The project has been funded using part of the £5.4 million allocated to Lincolnshire County Council by the Department of Transport from its National Productivity Investment Fund.

It was given help reduce congestion at key locations, upgrade or improve the maintenance of local highway assets, improve access to employment and housing, and develop economic and job creation opportunities.

County councillor Richard Davies. Photo: Steve Smailes for Lincolnshire Reporter

Councillor Richard Davies, in charge of highways and transport at Lincolnshire County Council, said: “The embankment itself was built in the 1970s to provide a safe route for road users wishing to cross the A153 and railway line.

“Over the years, other parts of the embankment have been repaired but there is still some concern that there are some areas showing signs of distress.

“As a result, these works are necessary for maintaining the safety of those using the bypass.

“When complete next spring, these repairs and improvements will improve safety for road users; stabilise the embankment to prevent further deterioration and reduce future repair costs; and ensure that rainwater is properly channelled away from the bank to where it should be discharged.

“We apologise for any inconvenience these works cause.

“However, due to the nature of the repairs, there will inevitably be delays and longer journey times.

“As a result, we are encouraging people to use an alternative route once works have started.”