This project was part of a broader initiative to improve traffic flow and safety along the A12, a major route in the UK. The bypass was designed to reduce congestion, improve travel times, and enhance safety by diverting traffic away from the village of Margaretting.
The completion of this project is a significant milestone, as it not only alleviates pressure on local roads, it also supports economic growth in the region by improving connectivity. The new bypass will have a positive impact on the daily commute for thousands of drivers, contributing to a more efficient and safer transportation network in the area.
Over the past 18 months, the previously concrete road was changed for a new, quieter asphalt surface. This will improve the journey of 35,000 road users, who use the road daily.
The A12 re-opened.
Sarah Reid, managing director - Highways said “These efforts highlight National Highways’ commitment to environmentally responsible construction practices while delivering essential infrastructure improvements. This has been a fantastic scheme to work on. The team have worked hard to deliver this scheme ahead of schedule.”
Nisar Ahmad, National Highways project manager said, “We are thrilled to announce the completion of the A12 Margaretting scheme, a vital project that not only enhances the infrastructure between junctions 13 and 15 but also sets a benchmark for sustainable construction practices. There has been disruption in the process of carrying out this essential work and we thank people for their patience.”
"This has been a fantastic scheme to work on. The team have worked hard to deliver this scheme ahead of schedule.”
Driving along the newly re-opened A12.
The new road will have an estimated lifespan between 40 to 50 years and will be easier and quicker for future repairs, compared to the almost daily repairs to the previously concrete surface. In addition, further improvements were made to the curbs, drainage systems, safety barriers, and road markings.
Working toward our 2030 net-zero carbon goal, the project team implemented several innovative strategies that reduced the scheme’s CO2 footprint by 58%. Measures included recycling the existing concrete and base, as part of the construction of the new road, saving 106.8 tonnes of carbon – the equivalent of heating 40 homes annually. Additionally, saving around 17,000 tonnes of carbon by reducing the surface thickness.