Highways Agency

• M6 Junction 6 Gravelly Hill Salford Circus (A38) Concrete Repairs

Frequently Asked Questions

What do the cones and concrete barriers do on this scheme?

They separate the works from the general public protecting people working behind them and public vehicles using the roundabout.  They also help to direct traffic as the normal junction layout will be different to what people are used to, until the project is complete and the road layout reinstated.

The cones and concrete barriers will remain in place for the duration of the works to protect both the works and the public.  It is neither safe nor economic to change the layout too frequently.  We have also been told by our customers that they become familiar with a particular layout and they do not like continual change.

Why do the cones and concrete barriers remain in place when no one is working?

The cones and concrete barriers need to remain in place for the duration of the works to protect both the works and the public.  There will be times during the project when workers will not be easily observed e.g. working out of sight behind barriers or preparing for the next activity whilst waiting for the concrete to set.  There will also be times when work will be suspended such as at night, during bad weather or during public holidays but will start again as soon as possible afterwards.

Are the works being carried out 24/7?

To reduce the environmental impact (eg. noise) on local residents and in the interest of safety, the works are not generally being carried out at night.  However, where there is a clear benefit to do so the works will be undertaken to reduce the length of time that traffic restrictions are necessary.

How long are the works due to last?

The works are expected to commence on 12 May 2008 and are expected to be completed in September 2009.  The concrete structures still carry traffic even whilst they are under repair, so only small areas of concrete are removed and replaced at a time.   During the planning stage other options are considered and the best option selected e.g. total closure of the slip roads to allow much larger areas of repair.

What works are being carried out?

The works involve the removal of defective concrete (and reinstatement) followed by the application of a protective system to prevent further deterioration of the concrete support structures.  Temporary support steelwork is in place to reduce the applied loads whilst the repair works are being carried out.

Why do we need to do this work and why now?

The works are being carried out as part of the Highways Agency’s ongoing programme of maintenance work on the Midland Links Motorways Viaducts.  The repairs are carried out before the condition of the concrete structures deteriorate to a point where they may become difficult or more expensive to repair.  A team of specialist structural engineers determine the best time to repair each structure to minimise disruption and to make the best use of tax payers money.

What would happen if you do not do this work?

The condition of the concrete structures would degrade further overtime. This would lead to the introduction of traffic restrictions such as mandatory weight limits on the supported slip roads.  These restrictions result in more vehicles using the local road network which increase pollution and congestion in the area.

Where are the signs?

There will be advanced notification of the roadworks on all approaches to the junction allowing drivers to plan their journeys in advance of the work starting.  Signs advising the new roundabout layout and the speed restriction signs will also be in place in advance of the work starting.

How much is it going to cost?

The approximate cost for these works will be £4.9 M

Where can I get further information / or give comments and feedback?

Further information can be obtained from the Highways Agency’s Information Line on 08457 50 40 30