National Highways has today announced that the work on the A52 Derby Road in Nottingham that will bring the road up to modern standards and beyond will begin on Monday 19 May.
National Highways’ Programme Development Manager Ian Doust, who is part of the team delivering a large improvement scheme set to get under way, said:
“The scale of our ambitious works on the A52 should not be underestimated. When this scheme is finished the road will be safer, more resilient to modern weather patterns and provide the travel standards that cyclists and pedestrians need in a modern city environment.”
Taking place between Priory roundabout and the Queen’s Medical Centre (QMC) roundabout, the scheme will resurface the carriageway, which is coming to the end of its working life, making journeys safer and smoother for drivers.
Parts of the ageing drainage system will be rebuilt to help tackle issues with flooding and cope with the strain of increased heavy rain and the impact of climate change.
In addition, ‘keep clear’ markings and other additional signage will be introduced to better enable access from local roads and to make directions clearer for all drivers using this stretch of road.
“There is so much work being invested in the area to bring this road up to modern standards and improve journeys for the thousands of drivers who use it every day,” says Doust.
“We have listened to people’s concerns and we are tackling issues of flooding, potholes, lighting and access from local roads. The cherry on the cake is the opportunity to make cycling safer and improving bus stop and crossing facilities so that everyone has a better journey.
“By doing all of this work at the same time we can significantly reduce the number of road closures and amount of roadworks needed – minimising disruption as much as possible whilst ultimately having the maximum impact on the quality and safety of people’s journeys.”
The new cycleway and pedestrian footpath is part of National Highway’s commitment to encourage healthy and sustainable travel and will help the city and county councils in their ambitions to provide a well-connected and complete network for cycling. As well as offering safe access to such amenities as Wollaton Park and the University of Nottingham, it will enable low carbon commutes to sites such as QMC and the city centre.
It is part-funded through National Highways’ Users and Community Designated Fund. Designated funds are ring-fenced funding that are used to invest in and support initiatives that deliver lasting benefits for road users, the environment and communities across England.
Street lighting, bus stops and pedestrian lighting-controlled crossings will also be upgraded as part of the scheme.
Nottingham City Council Leader and Executive Member for Strategic Regeneration, Transport and Communications, Councillor Neghat Khan said:
“This investment on the A52 is fantastic news for Nottingham, delivering smoother, safer journeys, tackling flooding, and making it easier and greener for people to get around our city. It’s a big step towards building a better-connected, climate-resilient Nottingham where modern infrastructure supports healthier lifestyles, strengthens our economy and meets the needs of future generations.
“Whether you’re travelling to work, education, healthcare or leisure, these improvements will make everyday journeys simpler, safer and more reliable for everyone who lives, works or travels here.”
(Pic: Mapillary)
