HIGHWAYS chiefs say plans to fully dual the Southern Link Road (SLR) between Junction 7 of the M5 and the Powick roundabout have taken a giant step forward.
Following successful extension of the rail bridge over the SLR in May this year, work has been underway to complete the dualling between Norton and Whittington roundabouts.
This work will provide two lanes in each direction with eastbound (uphill) traffic using the original railway bridge and westbound (downhill) traffic using the railway bridge extension.
Coun Ken Pollock, cabinet member with responsibility for economy and infrastructure, said: “It’s great news that we are ahead of schedule with the works to dual this part of the Southern Link Road and I’m looking forward to seeing traffic being able to use two lanes up and two lanes down very soon.
“It’s also great news that we can move forward with the next part of this phase of the scheme which includes the footbridges.
“This is a key part of our plan to support the flow of non-motorised traffic to and from the city and Worcestershire Parkway station, once completed.”
Following the closure on Wednesday night and a review on Thursday morning, traffic is now able to use both lanes of the new section of carriageway on the downhill section between Whittington and Norton roundabouts.
There was also a further closure on Thursday evening from 9pm until 6am on Friday to complete the works necessary in a bid to open two lanes uphill, along with the two lanes downhill which have already opened.
The temporary pedestrian crossing immediately to the east of Norton roundabout will remain in place until the footbridge, which will also be suitable for cyclists, has been completed.
The forward funding necessary to construct the Broomhall Way Footbridge, pending receipt of funding from the South Worcester Urban Extension developers who will ultimately pay for it, was approved by the county council on Thursday.
In addition, the funding necessary to install a farm bridge east of the Battenhall Railway Bridge and the Crookbarrow Way Footbridge, immediately to the west of the Battenhall Railway Bridge, was also agreed.
The Crookbarrow Way Footbridge will be suitable for pedestrians, cyclists and horse riders and will link St Peter’s and Brockhill Village, as well as forming an important link in the National Cycle Network and providing cycle access to the new Worcestershire Parkway Station.
The aim is to complete all three bridges within the next 18 months.
