Civil engineering firm GRAHAM has completed work on one of the biggest highways infrastructure projects in Essex.
The £76m M11 Junction 7A scheme opened to the public ahead of schedule last week (10 June), creating new access into Harlow.
It included widening and improvement of Gilden Way, plus a new link road connecting Gilden Way and the junction via new roundabouts on either side of the motorway.
As part of the project, GRAHAM, in collaboration with Essex County Council, built a new bridge over the motorway, constructed slip roads for both northbound and southbound traffic, and improved walking and cycling access on Gilden Way.
Work on the junction project started in summer 2020, funded by the council and National Highways, with Graham’s contract valued at £39.5m.
Lesley Wagland, the council’s cabinet member for economic renewal, infrastructure and planning, said: ‘Today marks the opening of one of the largest highways infrastructure projects in the county and it is testament to all involved that, despite the challenges of the last two years, the project has been delivered ahead of schedule.
‘We have created a much-needed new east-west link, significantly improving access to the M11 at Harlow. This, in turn, will help reduce congestion on the A414 and other routes in the town and also support future growth, including the potential creation of up to 3,000 new jobs.’
National Highways regional delivery director Matt Stafford said: ‘The M11 is a vital link for work journeys, visits to friends and family, and the movement of goods and services between London and East Anglia, and we’re pleased to have worked in partnership with Essex County Council to deliver this scheme.’
GRAHAM highways director for civil engineering added: ‘The team has worked tirelessly during the programme, which included a challenging bridge beam installation over two weeks, involving four overnight closures to minimise disruption to road users.
‘The new junction is a testament to our team’s civil engineering expertise and another addition to our growing highways portfolio.’
