Kier Highways is on target to finish working on its M6 13-15 motorway upgrade work for Highways Ebgland six months early, helped by ‘value’ engineering and other innovative approaches.

Work was due to finish in March 2022, but road users can now expect the roadworks to be completed in September 2021.

The contraflow system in operation on this scheme has enabled a number of improvements including a 50 percent reduction in the number of road closures required, allowing road users to continue travelling this stretch of the network while work takes place behind a physical safety barrier, and allowing additional space to undertake works which included the change of geotechnical solutions for the construction of retaining walls.

The ‘value engineering’ along with several innovative solutions reduced the project programme by two months on this project which is turning the hard shoulder into an extra traffic lane and installing up-to-date technology that will help keep traffic flowing smoothly.

Gavin Jones, project director, said: “It is extremely pleasing to be able to confirm the betterment of the opening date. The team has done a fantastic job over the past two and a half years, relentlessly focusing on safety, customer and delivery. This earlier date has been achieved through first-class innovation in key areas, and enthusiastic collaboration with Highways England, our supply-chain, the designer and customers from the very start of the project.”

A 60mph speed limit was also introduced successfully across a significant length of the scheme to reduce customer journey times through the roadworks.