25/2/2010 - Link road linked improvements set to start

Vital highway improvements supporting Barrow’s new link road will get underway next week.

On Monday (March 1) work starts on North Road (A590) to relocate a pedestrian crossing and provide a new traffic lane.

These alterations are part of Barrow’s Phase 2 Link Road project –a new road designed to improve access between the Waterfront and town centre, ease congestion and help traffic flow.

Work on the scheme started in August and is due to be completed in mid April.

The section of work starting on Monday, that is set to last around five weeks, involves removing a pedestrian crossing at the North Road/Dock Museum traffic signals to provide a new lane for traffic turning right onto Jute Road.

The crossing will be relocated to the nearby North Road/BAE Devonshire Dock Hall traffic signals and between March 14 and March 18 resurfacing is set to be carried out on Jute Road and the new roundabout at the link road/Jute Road junction.

For the duration of the five weeks of works both sides of the carriageway on North Road (between Ironworks Road and BAE’s Devonshire Dock Hall signals) will be reduced from two lanes to one. This could lead to delays so motorists are advised to make extra time for their journeys.

Jute Road will be closed from March 14 to 18 for the resurfacing with a signed diversion in place directing Tesco customers to the Hindpool Road entrance. Businesses will be open as usual.

Link Road Phase 2, which will run between the A590 North Road and A5087 Hindpool Road, has been made possible thanks to £3million of investment from the Northwest Regional Development Agency (NWDA), £500,000 from Cumbria County Council and a contribution of £100,000 from Barrow Borough Council.

The road is another improvement in a series of highway enhancements that are an essential part of the £200million Waterfront Barrow-in-Furness residential, business and leisure development.

An improved infrastructure will make the Waterfront site even more appealing for investors resulting in new jobs and a boost to the local and regional economy.

Phase 2 is the continuation of improvements carried out in the Cornmill Crossing/Hindpool Road area of Barrow, where resurfacing, new street lights and landscaping were carried out in 2008.

Councillor Tony Markley, Cumbria County Council’s cabinet member for highways and economic development, said: "This new road is going to be a massive boost for businesses and jobs in Barrow and will help attract further investment into the town.

"This is an exciting time for Barrow and the link road has an important role to play in regenerating the town for this and future generations.

"The work we’re carrying out from next week will cause some disruption and we apologise for this and thank people in advance for their patience."

For information about roadworks and highways visit the county council website at www.cumbria.gov.uk

ENDS

Media enquiries to media officer John Ballard on 01228 226330.