A Major Transformation: The Thickthorn Revamp and Its Impact on Norfolk's Roads
Motorists in Norfolk are in for a significant transformation as the £200 million revamp of the A47/A11 Thickthorn junction nears completion. The project, led by National Highways and contractors Skanska, aims to improve safety and traffic flow, but it has not been without its challenges and controversies.
The project's scope is vast, involving lane closures, utility diversions, archaeological excavations, and the construction of new slip roads and underpasses. These changes are designed to reduce congestion and enhance safety for both drivers and workers.
One of the key concerns has been the appearance of limited progress, which has caused frustration among some drivers. However, National Highways officials have assured the public that extensive work is indeed underway, including the diversion of utilities and archaeological excavations, which are crucial for the project's success.
The project's lead, Alistair Stout, explains, "We understand the initial concern, as it may not always look like much is happening. But we need to implement these measures before we can start the excavation phase."
The project's impact on traffic flow is significant. The A11 northbound will remain reduced to one lane until summer 2026, while the A47 eastbound will operate in two lanes until autumn this year. To accommodate these changes, the A47 westbound has been temporarily reduced to a single lane.
As the project progresses, the A47 contraflow will switch in October, providing two lanes on the westbound carriageway and one on the eastbound side. This will be a temporary measure until the new slip roads are fully operational.
The Thickthorn scheme will introduce two new free-flowing slip roads, connecting the A47 and A11. These roads will re-route traffic away from the roundabout, reducing congestion and improving safety. Additionally, a new link road will connect Cantley Lane South to the B1172 Norwich Road via a new bridge.
The project also includes the removal of the existing footbridge over the A47, with a new one designed for pedestrians, cyclists, and horse riders. The underpass construction will be a significant challenge, requiring excavation six meters below the existing A11 level.
Ian Letch, the project director for Skanska, highlights the visible changes ahead, "The Cantley Lane bridge will be the most noticeable change this year. It's a precast concrete structure, built in Worksop and assembled on-site, a unique approach that saves time."
Despite the short-term disruptions, the long-term benefits are expected to outweigh the challenges. The project is set to be completed by 2028, and progress has been steady since the work began last year. The entire project aims to transform the A47/A11 Thickthorn junction, improving traffic flow and safety for all road users in Norfolk.
