The congestion-busting bypass to reduce traffic jams in Ely moves a step closer as council chiefs announce the next stage of work on the road, which is due to open next summer.
A spokesman for Cambridgeshire County Council said: “Due to the nature of the ground beneath the embankments, a period of time is required for them to settle before construction continues on top of them.
“This period of settlement is now complete on the west embankment and the road construction will be commencing shortly.
“The first layers of surfacing have been laid on the west roundabout Angel Drove.
“With top soiling works due to start soon this part of the works will be gin to look complete.
“To reduce the impact on the travelling public, this roundabout will not be open to traffic until closer to the opening of the bypass.
“Off site work has started to fabricate steel beams as part of the river and railway bridges.
“The temporary speed restrictions along Stuntney Causeway have been reduced in length now that material is no longer being imported from Harlocks Farm.
“Temporary speed limits are in place to protect our work force and for the safety of the public on the highway.”
A spokesman for East Cambs District Council said: “The area around Ely station is currently heavily congested with lorries and other larger vehicles not able to use the low underpass.
“The bypass will ease congestion in Ely, reduce the need for traffic to pass the railway station and allow the level crossing to be closed.
“We have been working closely with UK Power Networks and Network Rail to minimise disruption to electricity supply while ensuring the safety of everyone.
“VolkerFitzpatrick is continuing to progress well with the permanent and temporary works design.”
The Ely southern bypass will connect the A142 at Angel Drove to Stuntney Causeway, including bridges over the railway line and the River Great Ouse and its floodplains.
The removal of an overhead high voltage electricity cable, that supplies local homes and businesses, was recently completed.
The overhead cable was replaced with an underground cable which involved drilling under the railway line.
Work has been ongoing since January 2017.
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