Construction work on the A47 Thickthorn junction in Norfolk has finally begun, with the projecting aiming to free up congestion and improve routes to the eastern ports.
The £200m project includes building two large underpasses underneath the A47 and A11 carriageways to create a new free-flow link road and remove 12,000 vehicles from the roundabout each day, according to National Highways.
A new road is also being built with a bridge over the A11 between Cantley Lane South and Norwich Road, as well as a footbridge over the A47 to the east of the junction.
Colin Bird, director of enhancements at National Highways, said: “Motorways and major A roads play a key role in keeping the UK economy moving, carrying a third of all traffic and two thirds of freight. This major project will transform journeys in and out of the region, boosting growth, reducing congestion, and improving safety.
“It’s a feat of engineering as we are creating two new underpasses, two new bridges, a local link road and a new slip road, and undertaking deep excavations, earthworks, and utility diversions – all whilst keeping the roads open for traffic where we can.”
The RHA said it welcomed the start of the construction work, but it also urged ministers to commit to the full programme of improvements in the region:
“This is a notoriously congested route which frustrates commuters, adds costs to supply chains, and holds back investment,” said Declan Pang, RHA director of public affairs and policy.
“The A47 is a strategically vital road which has suffered from long-term underinvestment, stymieing the region’s potential. Congestion costs the UK economy more than £30bn a year and roads like this are a significant part of that problem.”
He added: “Ministers have an opportunity here. Completing the full programme of A47 improvements would cut journey times and improve connectivity for communities and business.
“The economic case is compelling and would support the government’s mission to drive growth.”
The project is set to be completed by spring 2028.
