July 2020 – Update on the Public Realm Works

Works to divert the gas main between Royal Oak Yard and St Petersgate overbridge have been completed. Tarmac was laid in this area on a temporary basis to maximise pedestrian accessibility in advance of further works.

United Utilities started works on their apparatus last week, this is between Mealhouse Brow and Great Underbank. These works will take another 1 to 2 weeks to complete. United Utilities are working Saturdays to minimise the overall duration and associated disruption caused by this element of the works.

The main contractor for the works, George Cox has been undertaking works on behalf of BT to lay new ducting. Virgin Media have undertaken similar works of their own. George Cox has also been undertaking drainage connection works. Drainage, ducting and street lighting works will continue until the main carriageway construction activities commence

We recognise the sensitivities of our works in the area. We ontinue to work with delivery partners, including various third-party utility companies, to minimise disruption as much as possible whilst delivering the works safely and efficiently. We’re committed to opening as much of the street as possible at all times and, in particular, maintaining access to all businesses during trading hours.

All works are being sequenced to avoid any abortive works and co-ordinated to minimise disruption. Some highways works may be able to take place at the same time as the utilities works but this will only be when deemed possible and appropriate in consideration of social distancing.

The traffic management requirements will be reviewed and changed as the works progress, however, it’s anticipated that the through route will be closed to vehicles for the duration. We will aim to open as much of the road as possible at all times, including access to Royal Oak Yard. We’ll stay in close contact with businesses and residents as the works progress.

Subject to the completion of the utilities diversion works and in co-ordination with adjacent redevelopments, the main works are expected to be complete in early 2021.

Please be confident that measures are in place to make sure our staff are following government guidance in relation to coronavirus and social distancing. The delivery of schemes is only taking place where guidance can be followed to make sure that our staff and the public are safe.

Phase 3

Once adjacent redevelopment works have been completed, we’ll revisit the Phase 1 area between the automatic bollards and Royal Oak Yard with full reconstruction and paving.