THE FIRST image of what Carrington Bridge could look like when it is made into a dual carriageway has been released.
Work to dual the bridge on the road between Ketch and Powick is included in the fourth phase of the programme of works to upgrade the A4440 Southern Link Road. Construction is planned to start in 2019.
An additional bridge, featuring two westbound lanes, will be built adjacent to the existing bridge in order to minimise disruption to drivers throughout the project. The existing bridge will remain open to traffic for the majority of the duration of works.
The Southern Link Road is one of the county’s most important routes providing a link between Worcester and the M5 as well the south of the county and Herefordshire. It also provides an important bypass for the city and residential areas.
Work on the Southern Link Road has been progressing well, including the current works to make improvements between the Norton and Whittington roundabouts.
Once completed, the Southern Link Road will be dualled from J7 of the M5 all the way to Powick Roundabout which will reduce journey times, improve journey time reliability and reduce traffic in the city centre and residential areas as well as being important for the local economy.
A series of public information exhibitions are taking place for residents and businesses to take a first look at the plans for the next phase of the scheme.
The final two events will be held from 10am to 6pm today at St Peter’s Garden Centre with a final even from tomorrow until Saturday from 10am to 4pm at Malvern Library.
Coun Ken Pollock, cabinet member with responsibility for economy and infrastructure, said: “The improvement works along the Southern Link Road will improve journey times, reduce traffic in the city centre and residential areas and be of huge benefit to local economy.
“It’s great news that we are now in a position to be able to show our plans and gather feedback ahead of submission of a planning application for phase four of the improvement scheme.
“One of our biggest priorities is, how we minimise disruption as much possible during the planned works.
“We welcome any comments on our initial plans so please do have a look online or visit one of the exhibitions.”
Anyone unable to attend the public events can visit www.worcestershire.gov.uk and search for ‘A4440 Southern Link Road Improvements’ for more information.
