M62 junction 30 to 32 pinch points improvements near completion
The Highways Agency are pleased to announce that three pinch point schemes, currently ongoing between M62 junction 30 (Rothwell) and junction 32 (Castleford) in West Yorkshire, are nearing completion.
The Highways Agency are pleased to announce that three pinch point schemes, currently ongoing between M62 junction 30 (Rothwell) and junction 32 (Castleford) in West Yorkshire, are nearing completion.
The initial pinch point improvement work began in February 2014, with a further two stages in June that year. A number of improvements were made which included; installing electronic loops (known as MIDAS loops) in the carriageway to detect traffic flows. The loops sense when traffic is slowing down and automatically set warning messages and advisory speed limits, informing drivers on electronic signs ahead. Other improvements includes work at junction 31 and 32, increasing capacity at the junctions by widening the exit slip roads on the eastbound carriageway, reducing the effect of congestion backing up to the M62 mainline during peak hours.
The pinch point schemes provide smaller scale improvements that can 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.
Highways Agency Service Delivery Team Leader, Roger Wantling, said:
Last week saw a significant milestone, we have been able to remove the 50 mph speed limit and now all outstanding work will take place overnight, using lane closures only, with work to be finished by the end of March.
Once complete, road users will notice reduced congestion and journey times between M62 junctions 30 to 32. This will be beneficial for the local economies and also improve safety for drivers.
The work is part of a £317 million pinch point improvement programme designed to boost local economies, reduce congestion and improve safety on the strategic road network in England. The programme is part of the UK Government’s growth initiative, outlined during the Chancellors Autumn Statement in November 2011.
There are 15 Highways Agency pinch point schemes, totalling an investment of over £37m, taking place in Yorkshire and Humber.
Further information is available on the Highways Agency website at www.highways.gov.uk/roads Information on the Pinch Point programme can be found at www.highways.gov.uk/our-road-network/managing-our-roads/improving-our-network/pinch-point-programme/
These schemes are part of a major programme of road improvements planned in Yorkshire and Humber, with the region benefiting from over £550 million of investments.
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.