Press release

Major road improvement in West Sussex enters its final stage

A major scheme to improve journeys on the A23 between London and Brighton will move into its final phase of construction next month.

The A23 is being widened between Handcross and Warninglid to improve journeys and safety on the vital transport link. It is part of a record investment in roads in the South East, the largest since the 1970s.

In July the project will move into its final phase as southbound traffic will be moved onto the newly constructed southbound carriageway using overnight carriageway closures.

Highways Agency Project Manager Chris Bacon said:

Work has progressed well to improve journeys on the A23 in West Sussex and we’re now ready to move into the final phase of construction. The project is still on schedule for completion later this year and we have already completed work on several slip roads and built new access roads for local residents.

The changes will happen over several nights, and in two phases. We have planned the work to take place overnight, when we know traffic flows are lowest, and have liaised with West Sussex County Council to ensure the A24 is available to minimise disruption.

Southbound traffic will be diverted onto the newly constructed carriageway in two phases, with the first planned in early July and the second at the end of July.

During the month, the southbound entry slip road at the Handcross junction - which has been closed since February while it was rebuilt and improved - will be re-opened.

The work will be carried out overnight, between 8pm and 6am, and only one carriageway will be closed at a time. Dates will be publicised of the closures nearer the time.

Clearly signed diversions will be in place via the A264, A24 and A272.

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

Published 27 June 2014