Traffic signal upgrade and road resurfacing set for Unthank and Christchurch Roads in Norwich

Work begins 12th January 2026 with closures and diversions in place

Author: Katy WhitePublished 7th Jan 2026

Major improvement works are set to begin on Unthank Road and Christchurch Road, Norwich, starting Monday 12th January 2026. Norfolk County Council plans to upgrade traffic signals, add a new pedestrian crossing, and resurface the junction, with works expected to take up to 10 weeks to complete, subject to weather conditions.

What’s planned for the upgrade?

The £300,000 scheme includes installing a puffin crossing with its own pedestrian phase and tactile crossing points, alongside replacing and upgrading the existing traffic signals in the area.

Following pavement works and signal replacements at the junction, roads will be resurfaced starting Wednesday 4th March 2026, with the resurfacing due to take approximately three days.

Road closures and traffic management

Christchurch Road will be closed on both sides of the junction, and temporary two-way traffic signals will be installed on Unthank Road for the majority of the work period.

During the resurfacing phase in March, the full junction will need to be closed. Access and egress within the closure area will be maintained but may be subject to delays. Pedestrian access will be available throughout the works.

Diversion routes will be in place to minimise disruption, while site staff will assist Emergency Services needing access to the area.

Keeping residents informed

Norfolk County Council’s Infrastructure Department and their contractors are managing the works, and the council has thanked the public for their patience during these improvements. Residents are encouraged to be cautious and speak with site staff for guidance during the workdays if accessing the closure extents.

The upgrades aim to ensure safety for pedestrians and drivers while improving the overall efficiency of traffic management in the area.

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