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In this section you can find out more about how we manage and maintain these roads and plan for the future
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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M6 Carlisle to Guards Mill Extension
M6 Carlisle to Guards Mill Extension
- Status
- Completed
- Located in
- Area 13
- Scheme type
- Programme of Major Schemes
The Project
The A74 between Carlisle to Guards Mill was the last "missing link" in the motorway network between London and Glasgow. This dual carriageway section of trunk road had several minor road junctions and therefore mixed relatively low-speed local traffic with high-speed trunk road traffic. It had a poor accident record and caused driver frustration, resulting in heavy goods vehicles using the outside lane of each carriageway. The upgrade of this section to motorway standard is predicted to bring the following benefits to road users:
- a reduction in the number of accidents on the route;
- the provision of more carriageway space for emergency services attending accidents;
- the provision of more carriageway space to enable traffic flows to be maintained following an accident;
- a reduction in driver frustration;
- an improvement in accessibility for users; and
- the provision of more predictable journey times.
The needs of local traffic and non-motorway users are catered for with the new adjacent all-purpose road (APR) along the full length of the Scheme.
On 5th December 2008 the M6 Extension Carlisle to Guards Mill was officially opened by Transport Minister Andrew Adonis. This date also marked the 50 year anniversary since the opening of the Preston Bypass, the UK's first stretch of motorway and now part of the M6.
Construction Milestones
- 25th July 2006 - Official start of construction with cutting ceremony.
- 26th March 2008 - Completion of the new River Esk Bridge opened to traffic.
- 10th June 2008 - Mossband viaduct (northbound) opened to traffic.
- 11th June 2008 - Vehicle Operators Services Agency site handed over.
- 5th November 2008 - Start of demolition of the old Mossband viaduct.
- 28th November 2008 - New All-Purpose Road (APR) completely opened to traffic.
- 5th December 2008 - Official completion of works ceremony with plaque unveiling by Transport Minister Andrew Adonis.
- Christmas 2008 - Completion of the demolition of the old Mossband viaduct.
A brochure was produced to mark the completion of works and is available 'Publications' page.
The scheme is now officially complete following the opening of both the new motorway between Carlisle and Guards Mill and the new All-Purpose Road
