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The Project Control Framework
On 1st April 2008 we launched the Project Control Framework. The Framework sets out how we, together with the Department for Transport, manage and deliver major improvement projects.
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9.3.18 Strategy Element
A12 and A120 Route Management Strategy
| 9.3.18 | Strategy Element | ||
|---|---|---|---|
| Action: | Investigate Provision of Local Link Roads | ||
| Priority: | Medium | Ref: | 2D |
| Initiation: | Most of the A12 from the M25 to Colchester hasbeen improved by building bypasses, however two sections have been widenedon line, namely through Rivenhall End and between Feering and Marks Tey. This has left many direct accesses to properties, minor road junctions andgaps in the central reserve. In addition, bus stops, footpath and cyclewaysare also present adjacent to the main carriageway which also has substandardalignment and width, and no hardstrips in parts. With the amount of traffic using this part of the A12 (over 65,000 vehiclesper day) these characteristics are inappropriate. Improving existingjunctions and closing central reserve gaps without providing viablealternatives can lead to other problems on local roads or transfer theproblem to another junction. | ||
| Action description: | It is recommended that local link roadsare built between:
Where alternatives to junctions, accesses, footpaths, cycleways andbus stops have been provided the original A12 facilities will be closed. Surveys and studies will be carried out to ensure the optimum locationof the new routes. Statutory procedures will be undertaken including therequired environmental assessments and consultations. | ||
| Objective(s) met: | Many government objectives will be met by theproposals, including environmental OE6 and 10, safety OS1 to 96, economyOC1 to 4 and 6, accessibility OA2 to 4, and integration OI4. | ||
| Benefits: | The provision of local link roads isconsidered to be the best way of minimising the number of junctions andaccesses that are significant causes of accidents on this section ofthe A12. They would also have the advantage of removing local traffic,local bus services, pedestrians, equestrians and cyclists from the trunkroad all of which can be better catered for on the new links. They wouldalso help emergency vehicles in accessing incidents on the trunk road. With the accident rate reduced and removal of local traffic from the A12,congestion will be reduced and journey time reliability improved. | ||
| Timescale: | The costs of the link roads are approachingthe level where they would become national schemes and, therefore, mayneed the approval of the regional planning body. It would not beappropriate, therefore, to take them forward until the Multi-modal Studyhas reported and investigations are not planned to start until year 3. | ||
