M11 Junction 8 scheme update: April 2022

Preparatory works are progressing on site as initial phases of the M11 Junction 8 improvement scheme continue.

In January, existing traffic islands were removed from the A120 to give the contractor more flexibility with future traffic management. This will enable us to keep as many lanes open as possible during the upcoming construction works and help minimise disruption.

In February, one lane was closed on each of the M11 off-slips and the overbridges above the M11 (Birchanger Green Roundabout) to allow improvement works to be carried out.

We are now undertaking initial investigation works and underground utility diversions to ensure continuity of vital services is maintained as much as possible throughout construction.

To minimise the disruption caused by the scheme as much as possible, we are actively monitoring traffic and making amendments to traffic management arrangements to reduce congestion and delays wherever possible. This has included limiting the lane closure on the northern bridge on the gyratory at Junction 8 to off-peak times and weekdays only. We are also now exploring ways of implementing a similar approach on the southern bridge.

Beyond the initial works on site, the public notice period has now closed for a Traffic Regulation Order (TRO) that will include a staggered signal-controlled pedestrian/cycle crossing (Toucan type), the introduction of a 50mph speed limit restriction on A120 Birchanger, A1250 Dunmow Road, and Birchanger Lane, the introduction of a 24-hour clearway restriction on A120 Birchanger, A1250 Dunmow Road and Birchanger Lane and the conversion of a shared, un-segregated footway/cycleway on A1250, Dunmow Road. A TRO is a legal order which enables changes to the highway.

Objections to the TRO were received and a report is now being prepared ahead of a formal decision by Essex County Council on whether to approve the order.