Road improvement scheme announced to tackle UK’s concrete roads

HIGHWAYS England has announced an ambitious plan to upgrade and repair the UK’s network of concrete motorways and A-roads.

With much of the UK road network being made up of Tarmac, there still remains around 400-miles of concrete roads in the UK. Much of this was laid in the 60s and 70s, and, although designed to last for years to come, an increase in vehicle use has taken its toll on the surface.

Some of the remedial work has already begun, with surface repairs taking place in some areas in 2020, although the bulk of the work will take place between now and 2025. It is thought the update could extend the life of the roads by up to 40-years, with less damaged roads undergoing local repair work that is hoped to add 10-years more use to them.

The main affected roads are located in the east of England, while there are also some small stretches in the West Midlands, Merseyside, and Greater Manchester.

Highways England Regional Director Martin Fellows said: “Concrete roads have served the country well since they were first built half a century ago. They have proved tough and durable over the years, helping every day for work journeys and home deliveries, visits to friends and family, holidays, and the movement of the goods and services that we all depend on. This is the biggest concrete road renewals programme we have ever embarked on and we’re pleased to have awarded the final two contracts that will help us deliver the maximum benefits of safe, reliable and smooth journeys for many years to come.”