The A428 Black Cat to Caxton Gibbet project team have executed a crucial traffic switch to enable construction of the new A421 flyover and to lower the A1 carriageway. Piling works for the secant wall underpass structure will soon begin to prepare for A1 traffic to run beneath the new junction once construction is complete. This traffic switch provides early benefits for road users while facilitating ongoing work at the iconic Black Cat roundabout.
Key changes include moving A421 eastbound traffic onto a new free flow link road that provides continuous flow onto the A1 northbound. Westbound traffic is directed onto a new slip road leading away from the Black Cat roundabout. Additionally, the realigned Bedford Road is now open to traffic.
Dan Trathen, Project Director for the A428 scheme, commented on this milestone: “A number of critical traffic switches have taken place. This was a major strategic change involving complex road closures for the region and marks another significant milestone for the scheme.
“Drivers have been moved onto permanent new roads. This has reduced temporary works and minimises disruption by limiting the number of public diversions. From this point onwards, we will be handing over more and more permanent features to road users.
The switching of traffic onto permanent roads moves vehicles away from the current Black Cat roundabout, allowing construction works to continue in the heart of this iconic roundabout over the coming months.
Dan continued: “The team has done an incredible job delivering this carefully planned transition which not only improves current traffic flow and sees early benefits for road users but also sets a solid foundation for subsequent construction activities essential to completing this vital transport corridor upgrade.”
National Highways Project Director Lee Galloway said: “We’re delighted to have reached this milestone and to open these new roads at the Black Cat roundabout. These connections will make journeys safer and more reliable for everyone travelling through the area.
“Now that these sections are in use, we can progress work on the next major phase of construction.”