Balfour Beatty has got the go-ahead to start main construction on the £54m Middlewich Eastern Bypass in from Cheshire East Council.
The council has issued notice to proceed on the long-awaited road scheme, which was procured through the SCAPE framework, reports Construction Enquirer.
Work will start in May on the 2.5km bypass running to the east of Middlewich in Cheshire, including two major junctions, a new highway bridge over the Trent and Mersey Canal, a bridge over the Sandbach-Northwich railway line and active travel links.
Balfour Beatty has been working with the council since being named preferred bidder to progress detailed design with strategic design partner Jacobs.
The bypass is designed to cut congestion through Middlewich town centre and improve journey times for local road users.
Kay Slade, managing director of Balfour Beatty’s regional civils business, said:
“We’re delighted to have received Notice to Proceed, and to be commencing work on the Middlewich Eastern Bypass, reflecting our long standing relationship with Cheshire East Council and our strong track record in planning and delivering complex transport infrastructure across the region.
“Through early contractor engagement, we have worked closely with the Council and key stakeholders to ensure that the scheme delivers real value to Middlewich and its residents. As works now get underway, I look forward to seeing the positive impact this project will have in creating opportunities and lasting benefits for the local community.”
The project will employ up to 150 people at peak, and is due to complete in Summer 2028.
(Picture: Balfour Beatty)
