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The Project Control Framework
This framework sets out how we, together with the Department for Transport, manage and deliver major road improvement projects.
Environmental Issues
A1 Dishforth to Barton Improvement Scheme
Environmental Issues
The Highways Agency is conscious of it's obligations and attaches great importance to environmental issues. The A1 upgrade provides opportunities to enhance the setting using sympathetic landscaping, fencing and tree and shrub planting to reduce the impact of the motorway.
Detailed environmental surveys and assessments were carried out to assist the preliminary design process and develop mitigation to reduce the overall environmental impact of the proposed route.
Environmental measures include
- landscaping to provide visual screening
- noise barriers where appropriate
- habitat creation for protected species
- archaeological investigations.
Full details of mitigation measures can be found in the Environmental Statement.
Landscape and Land Use
The scheme has been designed to be sympathetic with the existing landscape character of the area and nearby settlements. Where possible, mature vegetation will be kept and there will be extensive tree and shrub planting to screen views of the road. Wild flower planting will create new habitats along the road. Some agricultural land was acquired to construct the scheme. Landowners are provided with alternative access where appropriate.
Biodiversity
The proposed route affects a number of protected species which have been indentified along the route. Adverse impact on these species has been minimised by the creation of Wildlife ponds particularly for Great Crested Newts, buliding Badger setts & Otter Holts, and the provision of Bat boxes.
Cultural Heritage
There is a nationally important archaeological site along the proposed route at Healam. Effects on this heritage resource has been minimised by realigning the route and modifying construction methods. The site has been fully investigated prior to, and during construction with records being made of any archaeological features found.
Noise and Air Quality
Low noise surfacing will be used on the new motorway to reduce traffic noise for nearby properties and settlements. In addition, earth mounds and fencing are provided at certain locations to further reduce noise. There will be no significant adverse effects on air quality as a result of the scheme.
Water Quality
Balancing ponds and other water flow controls are provided to reduce the effects of the motorway on pollution and local flooding. The introduction of pollution control measures within the drainage system will further reduce pollution risks and have a significant benefit for water quality.
Pedestrians, Cyclists and Horses
A number of safe motorway crossings are included in the scheme. These will be of benefit to all users. Some diversion of existing crossing points and relocation of routes is necessary. The planned local access road has been designed to allow the use of the verges by horse riders, and the provision of new links will maintain existing routes.
