National Highways has completed its £75m scheme to replace the existing concrete carriageway on the A12 Margaretting Bypass in Essex.
Work to repair the carriageway between junctions 13 and 15, which had to come to end of its serviceable life, began in February 2023 and the road opened to drivers on Thursday (8 August).
The government-owned company said the new, quieter, asphalt surface will improve journeys for the 35,000 road users who use the route each day, adding that the road will have a lifespan of 40 to 50 years and be easier and quicker to repair in future.
The A12 Margaretting Bypass welcomes its first drivers after the completion of the scheme
Project manager Nisar Ahmad said: ‘We are thrilled to announce the completion of the A12 Margaretting scheme, a vital project that not only enhances the infrastructure between junctions 13 and 15 but also sets a benchmark for sustainable construction practices.'
National Highways said the project team implemented several innovative strategies that reduced the scheme’s CO2 footprint by 58%.
Measures included recycling the existing concrete and base as part of the construction of the new road, saving 106.8 tonnes of carbon, while reducing the surfacing thickness led to a total carbon saving of approximately 17,000 tonnes.
Almost 58,000 tonnes of asphalt was put down during the construction of the new road.
Sarah Reid, managing director for highways, from delivery partner Morgan Sindall Infrastructure, said: ‘These efforts highlight National Highways’ commitment to environmentally responsible construction practices while delivering essential infrastructure improvements.
‘This has been a fantastic scheme to work on. The team have worked hard to deliver this scheme ahead of schedule.’
According to the scheme’s webpage, it was due to be completed in ‘Summer 2024’.
The original road surface
