Residents travelling between Spalding and Pinchbeck are being warned of significant traffic changes as the active travel project between the two communities moves into its next construction phase.
From early September, a one-way system will operate northbound on Pinchbeck Road, from north of the Park Road junction. A diversion will run via Pinchbeck Road, Spalding Road, Wardentree Lane, the A16, Holbeach Road and West Elloe Avenue, with the route operating in reverse for affected traffic.
Woolram Wygate will also close 24 hours a day until late October because of the road’s close proximity to the level crossing. A signed diversion will direct traffic via Park Road, Park Close and Woolram Wygate, and vice versa.
Access to the hospital from the north will be maintained during the works.
What is being built between Spalding and Pinchbeck?
Lincolnshire County Council says the scheme is designed to create a safer and more accessible route for people walking, wheeling and cycling between Spalding and Pinchbeck. It is also intended to improve links to schools, businesses, services and residential areas in both communities.
The wider project includes new and upgraded shared walking and cycling facilities, improved crossing points and other highway improvements. The council says the changes are intended to encourage more sustainable travel while improving safety for all road users.
The project is currently in Phases 1 and 2 on the section between Kings Road and Park Road. Work under way includes construction of the west-side footway for Phase 1, vegetation clearance for lighting-column installation in Phase 2, footway and drainage construction, and the installation of new traffic signals and islands.
Why are the works taking place?
The county council says the improvements will give people more choice in how they travel and make it easier to reach local destinations without always using a car. The scheme forms part of Lincolnshire County Council’s wider programme to encourage sustainable travel, improve road safety and provide better transport links across the county.
“It's great to see this important scheme continuing to make good progress.”
Cllr David East, the county council’s executive member for highways, said the project would support everyday journeys, healthier lifestyles and connections to schools, shops, workplaces and other key destinations.
Cllr Ingrid Sheard, county councillor for Spalding Elloe, acknowledged that the works had been frustrating for residents, particularly because they were taking place alongside utility works. She said the project team was working to make on-site signage as clear as possible and complete each phase quickly and safely.
The council expects the improvements to be finished later this year. Updates are available at lincolnshire.gov.uk/spaldingpinchbeckroute.