The
project is progressing to programme, and you will have seen the works advancing
on the ground. Earthworks at the Chapels/Penn Hill area have progressed
significantly, with topsoil stripped and rock excavation ongoing. Additionally,
the construction of the new bridge is near completion. You can see the
structure taking shape above the ground with the bridge deck now lifted in.
To
facilitate works at the southern end of the new scheme, Story Contracting Ltd
proposes to introduce a 400m section of temporary highway at Chapels, like the
section of road they have constructed near the Grizebeck Community Hall.
The
project requires substantial diversion of utilities in the existing highway in
this area and without the proposed temporary road, this would require
extensive, long-term traffic management measures such as traffic signals and
single lane operation, which would cause significant disruptions to road users.
By
diverting traffic to the new temporary road, these works can be undertaken away
from live traffic, minimising the need for traffic management and reducing
overall impact to road users. Construction of the temporary road has begun, and
once complete it will remain in place for approximately 12 months, or until the
new road is open. Once it is no longer needed, the temporary road will be
removed, and the area will be landscaped.
Given
the length of time the temporary road will be in operation, an independent road
safety audit is being conducted prior to its opening, which is a formal safety
review normally undertaken for permanent roads.
Please
be aware that to allow for the safe construction of the junctions between the
new temporary road and the existing road we will need to close the A595 at
Chapels across the evenings of two weekends:
•
Friday 25th July and Saturday 26th July
•
Friday 1st August and Saturday 2nd August
The
works will be conducted under an evening closure to minimise disruption to
traffic. The road will be closed from 19:00 – 07:00 on Friday and Saturday
night across both weekends. Outside of these times the road will remain open.
The
signed diversionary route will be via the A5092, A590 and A595 through
Greenodd, Ulverston and Askam in Furness. Access will be maintained for
emergency service vehicles.
We
would like to thank you for your continued patience, whilst the work is
ongoing.