ROADWORKS MISERY ON MOTORWAY
MAJOR roadworks have begun on the M56 near Runcorn and are due to last until November.
Highways England said the eight-month programme is focusing on Helsby Viaduct between junction 12 at Clifton and junction 14 Hapsford.
A spokesman for the agency said this stretch of motorway has deteriorated over the years and needs ‘significant essential maintenance repairs’ to ensure the structure remains safe in the future.
Concrete repairs are taking place under the viaduct itself, and in addition to this Highways England plans the following work on the M56:
Replacing the drainage system.
Waterproofing the bridge deck and replacing bridge joints.
Installation of a safety barrier along the sides and on the central reservation.
Carriageway surfacing and replacing the road markings.
The main construction work is due to start after the Easter Bank Holiday.
Average speed cameras have been installed to protect road workers.
Overnight closures will be in place with a signed diversion to allow a contraflow to be installed to allow for lane closures.
A statement from Highways England said: “Concrete repairs will continue underneath Helsby Viaduct and will be ongoing until the completion date.
“Advance work on the M56 has also started and will finish in time for the Easter period.
“The main construction work on the M56 will start after the Easter Bank Holiday and will be in place until the end of November 2020.
“For safety of road users and our workforce, a contraflow system will be in place.
“The contraflow will allow us to carry out our work as quickly as possible and keep three lanes open for traffic to minimise disruption and delays.
“A stepped 50mph, 40mph speed limit will also be in place.
“To install the contraflow, overnight closures are required on both carriageways of the M56 between junctions 12 and 14.
“As the work progresses, further overnight closures are needed to adjust the contraflow and working area.”