A5 Dodwells roundabout in Leicestershire set for improvement
A Highways Agency scheme aimed at improving safety and easing congestion at the A5 Dodwells roundabout in Leicestershire will get underway next month.
Work begins on Tuesday 2 October to widen the existing approaches and exit roads from the roundabout and to install traffic lights. Additionally, a controlled pedestrian crossing will be built at Longshoot junction.
The work will take place on weekdays during the day and night and subject to weather conditions, will be completed by March 2015. Some occasional weekend work may also be required.
The works are part of a £317 million ‘pinch point’ improvement programme designed to boost local economies, reduce congestion and improve safety on the strategic road network.
The programme is part of the UK Government’s growth initiative, outlined during the Chancellor’s Autumn Statement in November 2011. The aim is to provide small scale improvements that deliver big returns by easing congestion and making journey times more reliable for road users, including hauliers and commuters, to help boost local economies and drive economic growth.
Kevin Harvey, project manager for the scheme, said:
This scheme has been carefully designed to improve safety for motorists and pedestrians.
By increasing capacity at the approaches and exit roads, more vehicles will be able to enter and exit the roundabout and the new traffic lights will help traffic flow. Pedestrians will also be able to cross safely at the Longshoot junction.
While the work is ongoing we ask people to comply with the traffic management which is necessary for the safety of our road workers and road users. We also advise motorists to plan their journeys, leaving extra time if necessary.
During the day work will take place between 6am and 8pm. There will be narrow lanes during these times and a 30mph speed restriction.
Between 8pm and 6am there will be some closures on the approaches and exit roads from the roundabout as well as Longshoot junction. Dates are yet to be confirmed but the closures and diversions will be clearly signposted in advance. Temporary traffic lights will also be installed during the course of the work.
General enquiries
Members of the public should contact the Highways Agency Information Line on 0300 123 5000.
Media enquiries
Journalists should contact the Highways Agency press office on 0844 693 1448 and use the menu to speak to the most appropriate press officer.