Bedford Western Bypass Newsletter 1

Newsletter 1: 27 November 2007

The work on the Bedford Western Bypass started on Monday 17th September.

On Tuesday November 7 a small ceremony was held on site to mark the start of works to the Lady’s Walk Viaduct. Councillor Tom Wootton, the Cabinet Portfolio Holder for Highways and Waste Services climbed onto a large piling machine to drill the first pile for the bridge.     

Huw Jones, the Director of Environment, welcomed guests and thanked all those who had worked for many years to make the project possible. 

Work programme and progress

Road work

A good start was made on earthmoving until halted by wet weather in mid November. This is unlikely to restart until March 2008 brings drier weather. Meanwhile drainage pipes are being placed and filling operations at the A421 end of the scheme are being undertaken.

Structure

Piling will continue on the main viaduct during the winter, although if the Great Ouse floods, this will stop progress. Excavations for the culverts that will take surface water under the new road will continue.

Temporary traffic control

Temporary traffic control has been established on Cemetery Lane and Ridge Road and speed limits of 30 mph will soon be enforced through the works. No major diversions of traffic are planned until the spring. More details of traffic management may be found on the street works section of the BCC Website.

Communication and Contacts

Bedford Bypass dedicated 24 hour a day help line: (01234) 856282 (answerphone)

Site Offices (office hours only): (01234) 849000

Bedfordshire Highways Helpline: (01234) 228661

Bedfordshire CC Representative John Clarke: john.clarke@bedscc.gov.uk|

Supervising Manager  Malcolm Haynes: malcolm.haynes@amey.co.uk|

Contractor – Carillion Regional Civil Engineering Ltd.

Project Manager David Brown: david.e.brown@carillionplc.com|

Traffic Control Manager Steve Randall: 07961 397921 (daytime only)