Major improvements on one of Rotherham and Sheffield’s main routes has begun.
Carriageway works will include a full-width road resurface, the installation of new cycle lanes and repairs to 500 metres of damaged highway drainage.
Rotherham Council are leading two projects totalling £1.5m after securing funding from the Department for Transport to improve this strategic route which offers access to many industrial estates as well to popular leisure venues such as Magna and Meadowhall.
Using the Local Highways Maintenance Challenge Fund, the Council will resurface the road and fix drains which have been affected by last year’s flooding will be repaired to help reduce the risk of future flooding in the area. Funding from the Transforming Cities Fund will also provide funds for the scheme. The money will allow for dedicated kerbed cycle lanes which will give space to cyclists without the worry of parked cars in the carriageway. It will also help to improve pedestrian access to bus stops.
The route will also benefit from national funding intended for active travel and to support the new ways people have begun to travel in the aftermath of coronavirus.
Cllr Denise Lelliott, Cabinet Member for Jobs and Local Economy at Rotherham Council, said: “Sheffield Road is vital for connecting Rotherham with Sheffield with many local businesses relying on this road for moving goods, receiving deliveries, and travelling to other parts of the count
“Improving this major link road will be hugely beneficial for both motorists and cyclists and I know that many residents will welcome these changes whether they are travelling to Meadowhall and other shopping destinations or accessing the industrial sites.”
Cllr Emma Hoddinott, Cabinet Member for Waste, Roads & Community Safety at Rotherham Council, added: “Sheffield Road is a busy link for Rotherham and carries a lot of heavy traffic. It’s looking past it’s best, so these improvements will be welcome by motorists, cyclists, businesses and residents.”
Mayor of the Sheffield City Region Dan Jarvis said: “This scheme is part of a wider programme of investment secured through the Transforming Cities Fund, and will contribute to our plans for a stronger, greener and fairer economy and society in South Yorkshire.
“By enabling more people to walk and cycle to key employment and leisure sites such as Magna and Meadowhall, these improvements will enhance connectivity, support the regeneration of Rotherham and its economy, as well as help attract inward investment. Improving active travel will also bring both health and environmental benefits, including improved air quality.”
The project is expected to be complete by January 2021.
