Further Progress on 'Missing Link' of Western Bypass
Preliminary works are underway in preparation for the
construction of the final section of the Bedford Western bypass, as
Bedford Borough Council presses ahead with its plans to deliver the
‘missing link’ as soon as possible.
While preparatory work goes on along the route, work continues
alongside to resolve a remaining issue over the land required, with
Mayor Dave Hodgson having started the process to undertake
compulsory purchase if needed.
The final section of the bypass will join the A428 at Bromham
with the A6 at Clapham, completing a link from north to south
without the need for traffic to pass through Bedford town centre,
reducing congestion in Bedford and bringing wider benefits for the
Borough.
The works include surveys to assess the effect of the project on
the local environment, and ensuring the plans avoid important
features as far as is possible.
Mayor Dave Hodgson, who visited the site this week to see the
work taking place, said: “Completion of the western bypass will
bring huge benefits to the borough, cutting congestion, improving
air quality in the town and helping to provide lasting growth in
the local economy.
“We have started our detailed route planning now to give us the
best opportunity to ensure the new road meets all our requirements
and enables the retention of as many natural features as possible.
This will allow construction work to start as soon as possible,
once the remaining issue over the use of one required piece of land
is resolved.
“Following our success in securing approximately £9million in
external funding, this is further encouraging progress towards the
delivery of the vital development for Bedford Borough as soon as
possible.”
The Council has recently received just over £5million in funding
from the Homes and Communities Agency, which adds to the Growth
Area Funding secured in 2010.
When complete the second phase of the Bedford bypass will be
approximately 2.2km long.