Autumn start for delayed ‘vital’ £30m A55 scheme
£30M WORKS PLANNED TO CHANGE ACCESS AND CURB FLOODING RISK
THE start date for a major £30m scheme to bring “vital” improvements to a stretch of the A55 has been announced.
The Welsh Government said work to improve the 2.2km of dual carriageway between Abergwyngregyn and Tai’r Meibion (pictured) will get under way in September.
Work was due to begin in March, but the coronavirus pandemic forced a delay to the plans.
Ken Skates, minister for transport and North Wales, said: “This is a key scheme for the improvement of the A55.
“Additional time was required to plan the construction of the scheme with covid-19 regulations in place and we are now in a position where we can look ahead to construction later in September.
“Detailed design work is already well underway by the contractors.”
He added: “Investing in our infrastructure is more important than ever and this scheme will also be a boost for the local economy as well as improving the A55. I’d like to thank all those who have been working hard to ensure this scheme can now begin with the safeguards in place.”
The scheme will see direct accesses off the road removed, as well as the removal of eight gaps in the central reservation which currently allow slow moving agricultural vehicles to cross the A55.
An improved draining system will also be installed in a bid to prevent flooding on the stretch of road.
A 4km stretch of “active travel facilities” to encourage cycling and walking will also be installed.
Martyn Evans, executive director of Alun Griffiths contractors, who are carrying out the work, said: “We are delighted that work is now due to commence to deliver these vital safety improvements on the A55 providing safer journeys for road users and improved access for those living alongside it.
“As a result of coronavirus, we have embedded additional safety measures that exceed current government guidance, to protect our workforce and the local communities in which we will be working.
“Griffiths remain committed to minimising impact on local residents, businesses and the travelling public during construction.
“Our Community Engagement Officer will be using new contactless means of engaging with stakeholders which will keep everyone informed and updated. We will be sharing these shortly.
“We look forward to starting work and maximising project benefits, such as local employment and supply chain opportunities throughout all project phases.”