VolkerHighways has begun a £3m package of improvements works along the A339 in Newbury, West Berkshire.
The works on behalf of West Berkshire Council involve widening the road on both sides between the Pinchington Lane Roundabout and the entrance to the Household Waste Recycling Centre.
With a new traffic signal-controlled junction connecting the A339 to the new Highwood Copse Primary School (pictured), which is due open in September 2021, a pedestrian crossing is also being installed.
The works include relocation of underground utility services on both sides of the road, ‘significant’ surface water drainage works and new footway construction.
Richard Somner, the council’s executive member for highways and transport, said: ‘This is a project that will offer long-term benefits by providing necessary infrastructure.
‘Initially the new junction will serve the school and is a planning condition for the school. However, it also has the potential to provide essential access to housing in the future.’
The work started on Monday (5 October) and will last until Spring 2022 and is part of VolkerHighways’ seven-year term maintenance contract with the council, which started in 2016.
VolkerHighways managing director Alistair Thompson said: ‘This work will ensure safe and convenient access to the new school for all road users and is a welcome addition to the local highway network.’
The project, which has a price tag of £2.8m, is part-funded by Thames Valley Berkshire Local Enterprise Partnership’s Local Growth Deal Funding.
