Multimillion-pound boost to ease Kent jams

03 September 2009

A package of transport schemes to tackle congestion across Kent was given government go ahead last week.

The Department for Transport will invest up to £81.25m of the £87m investment needed for the East Kent Access scheme, which will improve road connections between the Isle of Thanet, Kent International Airport, the M2 motorway, Canterbury and the European gateways of Ramsgate, Dover and the Channel Tunnel.

It is also investing up to £23.4m towards the £35m cost of completing the Sittingbourne northern relief road, a strategic link between the A249 and the eastern outskirts of the town. The Homes and Communities Agency (HCA) is also providing almost £8m towards the cost.

Transport minister, Paul Clark, said: ‘These key schemes will allow large parts of the county to be opened up to national and international investment, supporting economic regeneration in the region.

‘Both schemes will reduce congestion, improve journey times, improve safety for road-users and pedestrians, help boost the economy, and allow for improved public transport.’ The East Kent Access improvements will see almost five miles of the A256 and A299 upgraded to dual carriageway. Main construction works for the project are due to start in October, with the scheme expected to be completed in late 2012.

The 1.5km Sittingbourne northern relief road will improve access in and around Sittingbourne, reduce congestion, improve safety for road-users and attract investment to the town and Thames Gateway. The scheme will also act as a catalyst for the regeneration of land at the head of Milton Creek; support the expansion of the Eurolink industrial estate; and facilitate the growth of residential development to the north and east of Sittingbourne.

Main construction works are due to start in September, with the scheme expected to be completed in late 2011.

Register now for full access

Register just once to get unrestricted, real-time coverage of the issues and challenges facing UK transport and highways engineers.

Full website content includes the latest news, exclusive commentary from leading industry figures and detailed topical analysis of the highways, transportation, environment and place-shaping sectors. Use the link below to register your details for full, free access.

Already a registered? Login