NEWLY completed roadworks on a key route into Stratford are being hailed for their green credentials.
Practices such as using sustainably sourced timber have been at the heart of Warwickshire County Council’s project to make travel along the A439 Warwick Road safer for drivers, cyclists and pedestrians.
The works along the stretch of road from Stratford to Ryon Hill Commerical Centre have lasted five months and have proved unpopular with residents. There have been scenes of traffic chaos throughout the town due to one-way systems and diversion routes being put in place.
And the level of disruption stepped up a gear in June when the A439 was closed to traffic overnight for resurfacing works and a chicane added during the day.
But council chiefs claim the scheme has been pioneering in its sustainability with many aspects breaking new ground in reducing the carbon impact of the works.
The road safety improvement works have included widening the road by Ingon Lane, completing footway construction throughout the length of the site, resurfacing the carriageway and installing new signage.
Green highlights of the project include 2.800 metres of sustainably sourced timber edging being installed, over 1,000 metres of ditches either being cleared or newly dug and over 100 new gully pots being replaced and connected to ditches or existing drainage systems.
Minor works still to be completed include a small amount of hedge and verge cutting, tree planting and, potentially, more grass seeding.
WCC’s transport spokesperson Coun Jan Matecki said: “The scheme has been well-managed and has come in on budget and on schedule with disruption kept to a minimum. My thanks to residents and commuters for their patience and co-operation.
“The work has made the road significantly safer for commuters and pedestrians alike and given opportunities for active travel along the footpaths and cycleways that will help to reduce congestion and improve air quality around the town centre.”
Coun Tim Sinclair, Warwickshire County Councillor for Stratford North, added: “I would also like to extend my thanks to everyone for their patience. The benefits for locals and for those using the road to come to the town centre are significant.
“It’s also really encouraging to see the sustainable practices bedding in. Moving towards sustainable practice in everything we do is integral if we are to achieve our net zero ambitions for Warwickshire.”
