Towcester relief road takes huge step forward
27 November 2024
The construction of the Towcester Relief Road has taken a huge step forward following technical approval for the A43 section of the road.
Technical approval is a complex process and has been achieved following many meetings between housebuilder Persimmon Homes, National Highways and West Northamptonshire Council.
Work has now started on the construction of the A43 roundabout with limited vegetation clearing. These works will initially be undertaken from the land to the East of the A43, to mitigate the effect on the road network. The vegetation clearing will then be completed under overnight nearside lane closures.
From 25 November, for a four-week period, the installation of temporary crossovers will be undertaken which will involve overnight closure of the offside lanes on both the north and southbound carriageways with a temporary 40mph speed limit in place. The nearside lanes on both carriageways will remain open during this phase.
Information boards will be erected three weeks prior to commencement of the main works which will include contact details for the contractor and details of the dedicated website where up-to-date information can be found.
A 24/7 emergency recovery service for vehicle breakdowns within the working area will be provided throughout the period of these works.
“We are delighted to have secured technical approval and to commence works on the next phase. Careful consideration has been given to the build programme and we have worked with all parties to take into account local factors. We are committed to getting the road fully open as soon as possible which we currently anticipate being in Spring 2026.”Zac Hurst, Managing Director at Persimmon Homes Midlands
“It will come as a huge relief to many residents that the technical designs for the A43 roundabout have been approved and that the next stage of the Towcester Relief Road can be progressed. Whilst there is still a lot of work to do, this is a positive development and one that will be welcomed by the residents of Towcester. Whilst it is very disappointing that the project will miss its original 2025 completion date, I will continue to press Persimmon, National Highways and all of the stakeholders involved to deliver this road as promised in early 2026.”Sarah Bool MP
“We have been working with all parties involved to ensure the new road meets the essential technical standards and does not compromise safety on the A43 and at this key junction. We are delighted that it has now reached this significant milestone. When completed, this new road will offer an alternative to the high street easing traffic flow in the town centre which we know has been an ongoing concern for the people of Towcester.”
“It is great news that this milestone has been reached so that work can progress on this project that will relieve traffic and improve air quality in Towcester town centre. The completion of the relief road will provide the opportunity for improvements to make the town centre more pedestrian and cycle friendly. As we move forward, I would like to thank all residents and road users for their continued patience.”Cllr Phil Larratt, WNC’s Cabinet Member for Highways and Transport
Persimmon Homes, National Highways and West Northamptonshire Council are committed to keeping local residents and businesses informed of progress throughout these works and will be communicating on a regular basis. A dedicated website www.resident-portal.co.uk/towcester has also been developed so the status of the work can be reviewed at any time.