What is the council doing to prevent traffic 'chaos' when HS2 closes A46 for three weeks?
By James Smith
29th Nov 2024 | Local News
A councillor has asked what the district council is doing to make sure traffic "chaos" is avoided when the A46 is closed for nearly a month next year.
HS2 is set to close the main road around Stoneleigh to slide in its new bridge which will allow the new rail line to pass under the dual carriageway.
The bridge is currently being built next to the road, but will be moved into position and have the A46 rebuilt over it during a three-week closure.
The exact date of the works has not been confirmed yet, but is expected in the spring.
But speaking at this week's full Warwick District Council meeting, Cllr Richard Dickson asked what the local authority is doing to prepare for the major event.
"This will have a major impact on the economy of Warwick district," he said.
"It has the risk of causing huge inconvenience for businesses, residents and visitors to our district.
"Yet no draft plans have so far been published by HS2.
"What has this council done, working with HS2, BBV, county council highways, the highways agency, town and parish councils and local communities to ensure the traffic management plan, when it is finally produced, minimises as much as possible the inconvenience, the disruption and the possible chaos to be endured next year by businesses and residents in Warwick district."
In response, Cllr Jonathan Chilvers advised BBV - HS2's construction partner - has outlined 13 different ways it will help minimise disruption, many of which are to do with communication.
"This project is not one where Warwick District Council is not a decision maker in any way," he clarified.
Cllr Chilvers added: "We are liaising with HS2, Highways England and Warwickshire County Council to understand in detail what alternatives measures are being put in place and how this will impact on local businesses."
HS2 has already said it will not start the closure until the much-delayed A46 junction project at Stoneleigh is eventually completed.
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