Project to Tackle Decongestion at Traffic Hotspot Announced

Bedford Borough Council has announced a £5 million scheme to help tackle congestion on two key A6 roundabouts on the north side of Bedford, as well as Manton Lane, after a successful bid to secure additional funds from the Department for Transport.

With £3.5million in Government funding secured towards the council investment, improvements to the Manton Lane A6 junction along with the Clapham/Northern bypass junction are now set to go ahead through the 'Bedford Northern Gateway to Growth' project. This will increase capacity and help tackle the congestion in this area.

These works are set to include the installation of signals on Manton Lane roundabout, linking the traffic lights on Manton Lane to the new signalised roundabout, increasing capacity at the Great Ouse Way (the new northern bypass) junction, and improving pedestrian crossing facilities on Manton Lane.

Mayor Dave Hodgson said: "We know what a congestion hotspot this area is - that's why we fought to win this funding and have devised a scheme designed to make a real difference. Essentially, three junctions which currently operate independently will now be linked in a way which is designed to minimise congestion.'

"With regeneration and economic and employment growth continuing in Bedford Borough, this project is just one part of a major decongestion programme we are working on for Bedford."

Deputy Mayor Cllr Charles Royden, Portfolio Holder for Transport added: "This junction is a well-known congestion hotspot in our town. This successful bid, alongside investment by the Council, will deliver major works to help relieve this pressure. As our town and Borough continue to thrive and grow, these crucial works to improve our infrastructure will help keep our roads running smoothly."

Works are expected to begin in 2019, following consultation and confirmation of the final detailed scheme.