Traffic reduction scheme 
on track

The plan, which secured approval from the Department for Transport (DfT) last month, will see a major ease on traffic congestion in the town centre through the construction of the Southern Relief Road, alongside associated projects including extensions and improvements to roundabouts in Swinemoor and Grovehill.

The scheme, which has secured more than £16.3m from the DfT, will be one of the largest capital investments ever undertaken by the authority.

Council leader Stephen Parnaby said: “The appointment of a contractor for this important highways scheme is another significant milestone passed and in Birse Civils Limited we have a Yorkshire contractor delivering the project, providing a timely boost for the construction industry.

“BITP represents excellent value for money and will result in improved transport infrastructure for Beverley in the long-term, plus immediate benefits such as the involvement of the local business community in its delivery, safeguarding jobs and providing the opportunity for local young people to gain valuable work experience and improve employability and skills.

“While there will be some inevitable short-term disruption, unavoidable due to the nature of the scheme, the end result will be reduced congestion and improved traffic flows in Beverley which will be enjoyed by motorists and the travelling public for decades to come.”

The main aim is to reduce traffic volume in the town centre, with streets such as Keldgate expected to see a decrease of about 60 per cent.

The traffic model also predicts traffic reductions on Victoria Road, Queensgate and Hengate. Computerised traffic lights that “sense” traffic flows and speeds will further ease traffic flow.