Building work is progressing at speed on a major growth boosting road project in Staffordshire – completion of the current phase of construction is due to be complete three weeks before the scheduled deadline.
Construction of the multi-million-pound Stafford Western Access Route began last summer, and will enable millions of pounds worth of housing and business development to take place in the area. The project will also improve the current traffic flow in Stafford town centre, particularly near the railway station.
The current phase of work involves the installation of driven piles (to improve building foundations at the site), however, with the introduction of an extra piling rig, work has now been reduced by three weeks – due to be complete in the middle of March.
The Stafford Western Access Route will link Foregate Street (A34) at Madford Retail Park to the Newport Road (A518) Castlefields Junction. The scheme will also help to improve traffic flow in Gaol Square, Newport Road (east of Kingsway), Station Road, Chell Road, Foregate Street (south of the scheme) and Doxey Road.
Staffordshire County Council’s Economic Growth Leader, Mark Winnington commented on the project:
“The Stafford Western Access Route is an essential part of Stafford’s ambitious growth plans. It will enable future development contained in the borough’s local plan – notably the delivery of thousands of new homes and business, office and retail space. It will also reduce congestion in the town centre, particularly around the railway station.
“As the scheme progresses, wherever possible we will do all we can to minimise disruption and the length of the works period. By bringing a second piling rig on site we can significantly reduce this phase.
“We continue to keep in contact with local residents, businesses and partner organisations to keep them up to date with the project.”
Back in December a temporary roundabout was installed on Doxey Road, which will provide access to the Borough Council carpark and the nearby Sainsbury’s until the realigned permanent roundabout becomes open to the public. Demolition of the old Saint Gobain buildings on Doxey Road is nearly complete, paving the way for construction of the new roundabout, and further developments.
Anyone wanting further information on the Stafford Western Access Route can email: staffordwestern.accessroute@staffordshire.gov.uk
The scheme will include improved conditions for bus services, pedestrians and cyclists. There will also be environmental benefits through the redevelopment of areas of derelict land and landscaping along the route.