The Sandy Lane Relief Road in Northampton, dubbed ‘the road to nowhere’, has finally been opened to traffic after over 15 years of delays - and yes, it now goes somewhere.
Construction on the road – which connects the A4500 to Duston and Harpole – began over 15 years ago, before it was halted prior to completion.
Whilst construction finally recommenced in 2023 with West Northamptonshire Council leading the work alongside contractors Kier, there were still challenges to overcome.
One section of the road was scheduled to open in March 2024 after being closed for eight months, but additional delays meant it remained closed for a further three months until June 2024.
Following technical works and safety and quality inspections that were carried out by Kier throughout June and July this year, the road is now expected to open this week.
Cllr Richard Butler, cabinet member for highways and transport, said: ‘It’s great news that we’ve managed to get the final stage of the Sandy Lane Relief Road over the line and open to the public ahead of the busy autumn season.
‘Thanks to partnership working with Homes England, Miller Homes, Vistry Homes and Kier Transportation, the road will reduce traffic and provide better connectivity, particularly to those in the Harpole and Duston area.’
Peter Ingram, contracts director at Kier Transportation, added: ‘This will be an important link to the North and West of the county, and we look forward to seeing how the route will improve journeys and have a positive impact across the community.’
West Northamptonshire Council has been approached for comment.
