A19 widening work set to get under way in spring next year

THE widening of the A19 could finally get under way next spring as design plans reach the next stage.

Highways England has appointed a principal contractor for the next detailed design stage of the planned works which hopes to relieve congestion between Norton and Wynyard.

Stage three preliminary design works were successfully completed last year and significant progress has been made since then.

Highways England say: “We will shortly start the detailed design of the scheme with a view to meeting the start of works date of spring 2020.

“It is our intention to hold a series of public information events in summer 2019 where local politicians, media and members of the public will be able to speak with the project team and view maps and plans of our proposals.

“Users of the A19 between Norton and Wynyard already experience congestion and delays, particularly during peak hours, which can result in unreliable journey times. Traffic is also expected to grow with new housing and employment developments planned for the area. Furthermore, the existing concrete surfacing results in a noise issue for local residents.

“The scheme will benefit local residents and businesses by relieving congestion, improving journey time reliability and network resilience. Replacement of the road surface will also reduce road traffic noise.

“The scheme will promote growth in the local economy and local area by bringing forward developments in the Tees Valley area, supporting the government’s initiative for growth in the North East.”

As part of the scheme, which is set to cost up to £128m, both carriageways would be widened to provide three traffic lanes.

First announced in 2014, campaigners had struggled to secure a start date for work.

The existing section of concrete carriageway will be replaced with low noise surfacing.

Any current public rights of way including footbridges and underpasses will either be maintained or replaced.