Roads to close for vital improvements on the A595 and A5096

Cumbria Council have been handed cash from the Government's levelling-up fund for the works

Author: Oliver MorganPublished 7th Jan 2024
Last updated 21st Jul 2024

Vital road improvements get going from tomorrow (January 8) in parts of Cumbria - thanks to millions of pounds of levelling up cash from the Government.

There’ll be road closures on the A5086 and A595 as part of a programme of upgrades between Cockermouth and Egremont, and just south of Sellafield.

These works, funded by ÂŁ14.3 million of Government investment, will include resurfacing; drainage works and bridge repairs incorporating innovative opportunities for carbon reduction measures and the use of recycled materials.

The projects are:

  • A5086 between Rowrah and Crossgates – with work to take place over a six-week period, in two phases. Phase one - Kirkland junction to Rowrah; phase two from Crossgates to Kirkland Junction.
  • A595 Whicham Valley – work to take place over a four-week period.

The works will be carried out under a daytime road closure from approximately 7:30am – 6.00pm daily, however, these roads will remain closed for the duration of the works.

There will be a dedicated Traffic Marshal on site during the works to guide locals to properties in the regions with closed roads - and locals are urged to be aware that there might be some delays accessing properties.

Access will be maintained for emergency services during the works.

Further improvements are planned for over the next year, with the next project scheduled for the end of February on the A5086 Parkside.

Extra schemes on the A595 schemes are scheduled to start after the Easter holidays.

Cumberland Councillor Denise Rollo, Executive Member for Sustainable, Resilient and Connected Places, said: "The funding from the Levelling Up Fund is a fantastic opportunity to enhance the resilience and reliability of our road network. This will benefit local communities, the economy, and connectivity to jobs, goods, and services, promoting investment in Cumberland's natural, manufacturing, nuclear, and energy expertise.

"This maintenance work will enhance journey reliability, safety, and reduce road closures due to highway defects. Cumberland Council continues to be committed in its promise to improving residents' quality of life through sustainable development, community engagement, and prioritising health and wellbeing in everything we do."

For more information, you are urged to contact Cumberland Council’s Highways Hotline on 0300 373 3736 or visit the Cumberland Council website.

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