A £22.6 million contract to improve the Grovehurst Road junctions near Sittingbourne in the UK has been awarded. The contract was awarded to Jackson Civil Engineering by Kent County Council. This significant project aims to address the existing traffic congestion issues and accommodate future growth in the area.
The current state of the junction can be described as a “dumbbell junction,” featuring two roundabouts positioned on either side of the A249. These roundabouts are connected by a carriageway bridge spanning the busy A road.
The junction is a primary route for traffic heading towards the Sittingbourne Northern Relief Road to the east and Iwade Village to the west. Additionally, it connects to Grovehurst Road and Swale Way, serving as a vital transportation hub for the region.
Unfortunately, the junction is often plagued by heavy traffic volumes, resulting in extensive queues and chronic congestion. With future development plans in the corridor, including the construction of 4,628 new homes, the traffic volume is only expected to increase, exacerbating the existing challenges.
Recognising the pressing need for improvement, Kent County Council has proposed significant enhancements to the junctions to mitigate the impact of future growth, reduce congestion, and address air quality concerns.
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The Grovehurst Road junctions project in Kent, UK
The extensive works that Jackson Civil Engineering will undertake include repurposing the existing two-way bridge into a two-lane one-way bridge. This will form part of the new gyratory system.
Additionally, a new bridge will be constructed northeast of the existing one, crossing the A249. It will feature a composite design with piled foundations.
To optimise traffic flow, the existing roundabouts to the northwest and southeast of the A249 will be removed, and instead, traffic lights will be installed on the gyratory and respective roundabout approaches.
Furthermore, alterations will be made to the roundabout approach and exit arrangements between the new gyratory and Grovehurst Road and Swale Way. The A249 slip roads will undergo complete reconstruction, particularly those facing the Isle of Sheppey.
The project also encompasses providing a new access point to Nichols Transport Logistics Park, located northeast of Swale Way. Pedestrian and cycle priority crossings, known as “toucan” crossings, will be introduced, promoting active transportation.
Where feasible, the existing footways and verges will be widened. This will help accommodate shared footways and cycleways, promoting sustainable modes of travel.
Jackson Civil Engineering’s Contract
Jackson Civil Engineering emerged as the selected contractor for the job, having been chosen from a pool of four tenders. The selection process weighed both price and quality, with each aspect accounting for 50% of the evaluation criteria.
The funding for this substantial undertaking was secured through the Housing and Infrastructure Fund. This enabled the council to move forward with this crucial infrastructure development.
In preparation for the Grovehurst Road junctions project, advanced ecological measures have already taken place. This includes the careful translocation of reptile populations to ensure their protection. The main construction works are anticipated to commence in July, with a projected completion date set for September 2024.
Once completed, the improved Grovehurst Road junctions will significantly alleviate congestion. It will also enhance traffic flow and lay the foundation for future growth in the region.
