A long-awaited relief road in Lincolnshire has been given the green light with over £110 million in government funding, promising faster journeys, reduced congestion, and the development of thousands of new homes.
Work on the North Hykeham Relief Road will begin next month, with the new dual carriageway connecting the A46 and A15 set to transform travel across Lincoln and the surrounding county. The project is expected to support the delivery of 4,500 new homes and improve access to jobs by strengthening connections into Lincoln.
The scheme also includes dedicated cycling and walking provisions, offering residents more sustainable travel options while easing congestion in nearby villages and improving road safety.
First proposed in the mid-2000s, the relief road has been long anticipated by local communities. The Department for Transport’s funding confirmation paves the way for construction to begin in mid-March, with an expected completion date of May 2029.
Roads and Buses Minister Simon Lightwood said the investment demonstrates the government’s commitment to improving local infrastructure.
‘Roads are a key link for communities, boosting access to opportunities and jobs, which is why I am delighted to confirm funding for this project,’ Lightwood said. ‘We’re putting our money where our mouth is, with a £110 million investment that will mean faster journeys and less congestion. I look forward to seeing how it will transform Lincolnshire moving forward.’
The scheme is expected to deliver significant economic benefits for the region, creating vital infrastructure to support growth while improving everyday travel for tens of thousands of residents and businesses.
Cllr Sean Matthews, Leader of Lincolnshire County Council, said: ‘This is a huge milestone for the project. We’ve now cleared the final hurdle of getting the final piece of Lincoln’s ring road built. Now that all funding for the scheme is in place, our focus will be on making sure Balfour Beatty is ready to hit the ground running ahead of breaking ground in March.
‘This road will offer huge economic benefits when it’s finished, including opening up land for 4,500 homes and 7 hectares of employment space. It will also contribute £800 million in economic benefits for the county over the next 60 years, which is a massive amount.’
Simon Beardsley, Chief Executive Officer for Lincolnshire Chamber of Commerce, said: ‘The progress of the North Hykeham Relief Road is a truly exciting milestone for Lincolnshire, signalling real momentum behind one of the county’s most significant infrastructure investments.
‘This project will play a vital role in improving connectivity, reducing congestion and supporting long-term growth, benefiting local businesses, attracting inward investment and strengthening our communities.’
Photo: Sveta Fedarava
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