THE NEXT phase of works on the Southern Link Road is now under way and road closures will be put in place.
The long-running improvement project continues as work will now begin to extend Battenhall Railway Bridge which is midway between the Norton and Whittington roundabouts.
This will enable the two ‘uphill’ lanes from Norton to Whittington to run beneath the existing Battenhall Railway Bridge and two new ‘downhill’ lanes from Whittington and Norton to run under the new bridge.
Installation of the bridge extension is scheduled to take place towards the end of next spring but significant works have to be carried out beforehand.
One of the essential parts of this work is the demolition of the existing farmer’s access bridge which sits next to Battenhall Railway Bridge.
This demolition work is due to take place over the weekend of Saturday 25 and Sunday, November 26.
As a result, the Southern Link Road will be fully closed between Norton and Whittington roundabouts from 2am on Saturday 25 until the work is completed on Sunday evening.
Alternative routes will be signposted for drivers, cyclists and pedestrians.
However, Broomhall Way, St Peter’s Drive and Norton Lane will remain open.
Coun Ken Pollock, cabinet member for Economy and Infrastructure, said: “By dualling the whole route, it will improve journey times and the reliability of journeys for people.
“We know the closures may cause some inconvenience to drivers and residents and we apologise in advance but these works are essential.”
