The Department for Transport has confirmed its funding of the North Hykeham Relief Road in Lincolnshire, almost 20 years since it was first mooted. Work will begin in March with the new dual carriageway between the A46 and A15, backed by over £110 million in Government funding, supporting the delivery of 4,500 homes around Lincoln.

The link road will open up new job opportunities through improved connections into Lincoln, reduce congestion in surrounding villages, and improve road safety.

The project will also give people more options to travel with safe cycling and walking provisions built into the scheme.

Roads and Buses Minister Simon Lightwood said:

“Roads are a key link for communities, boosting access to opportunities and jobs, which is why I am delighted to confirm funding for this project.

“We’re putting our money where our mouth is, with a £110 million investment that will mean faster journeys and less congestion. I look forward to seeing how it will transform Lincolnshire moving forward.”

First proposed in the mid-2000s, the relief road has been long anticipated, with this Department for Transport confirmation of funding ensuring drivers can enjoy the new road as soon as possible.

Work will begin in the middle of March, with an expected completion date of May 2029.

Cllr Sean Matthews, Leader of Lincolnshire County Council, said:

“This is a huge milestone for the project. We’ve now cleared the final hurdle of getting the final piece of Lincoln’s ring road built. Now that all funding for the scheme is in place, our focus will be on making sure Balfour Beatty is ready to hit the ground running ahead of breaking ground in March.“This road will offer huge economic benefits when it’s finished, including opening up land for 4,500 homes and 7 hectares of employment space. It will also contribute £800 million in economic benefits for the county over the next sixty years which is a massive amount.”

(Picture: Department for Transport)