TfL will begin the second phase of major strengthening and refurbishment work on Gallows Corner flyover in Romford on 23 June, which will allow the structure to continue providing reliable and safe transport for decades to come. The essential work will require both the flyover and the roundabout to be closed to all traffic, other than emergency vehicles, buses and black cabs.
Gallows Corner flyover was built in the 1970s as a temporary structure and is in urgent need of renewal. The speed and weight limits implemented in previous years have allowed the structure to continue operating safely but a major refurbishment project is now taking place to avoid future disruptions to the road network.
This strengthened structure will allow for the removal of speed and weight restrictions, improving journey times, and the reliability and safety of the road and bus network. Once completed, the refurbished flyover will also include new pedestrian and cycle crossings at the roundabout to make journeys safer for pedestrians and cyclists, while improved road markings and resurfacing will improve journeys for people driving.
Beginning at 2100 on 23 June, the second phase of this project will involve the renewal and replacement of the flyover, other than its foundations. While the works take place Gallows Corner junction will be closed to all vehicular traffic, with only emergency vehicles, black cabs and TfL buses able to use the junction. Additionally, walking and cycling routes via the junction will be maintained throughout the closure. The closures will be in place until September.
The work has been timed to coincide with the summer months, when traffic on the network is relatively lower than at other times of the year. The full closure enables the works to be completed as quickly as possible rather than a series of lengthy partial closures with ongoing disruption. TfL is also collaborating with Essex and Suffolk Water to make best use of the junction closure, enabling them to complete essential water mains replacement works alongside the A127 during the closure. This means local water supply will continue to be protected and further disruptions around Gallows Corner can be avoided.
Roads will be closed, with local access maintained, between Gallows Corner roundabout and the following areas:
- A12 Eastern Avenue to Pettits Lane / Pettits Lane North
- A12 Colchester Road to Gooshays Drive / Gubbins Lane
- A127 Southend Arterial Road to Ardleigh Green Road / Squirrels Heath Road
- A118 Main Road to Upper Brentwood Road
- A118 Straight Road to Masefield Crescent
(Pic: TfL)