A55 works completed ahead of schedule

Work on the Kneeshaw Lupton underbridge near Junction 23 began on 17 September and the road will be fully re-opened on Friday 12 October, six days before it was originally due to.

Taking place on a 24 hours a day, seven days a week basis, the work on the Kneeshaw Lupton underbridge has involved surface removal, waterproofing of the bridge deck, concrete repair and the replacement of bridge joints.

Due to the nature of the engineering works, boards have been in place with work taking place on the other side of these. Critical work on the bridge joints at either end of the structure, which involved hydro-demolition, has been carried out under cover and out of sight of the public to ensure their safety.

All work on the westbound carriageway will be completed by 6am on 12 October when traffic management measures will be removed.

Action has also been taken to offset the impact for the travelling public by ensuring work on the eastbound carriageway can be delayed until next year.

Transport Secretary Ken Skates said:

“I am very pleased to announce essential improvements to the Kneeshaw Lupton underbridge on the A55 have been completed six days ahead of schedule. This is in no small part down to officials and contractors who have worked tirelessly to conclude work as quickly as possible and I thank them for their efforts.

“I also want to thank the travelling public for their patience whilst this work has been carried out. Disruption is never welcome on our roads, but this work has been absolutely necessary and as the waterproofing element needed to be laid in reasonable weather conditions, doing it after the busy summer period, but before the half term break, was the right time to act.

“The A55 is a vital route in North Wales and these improvements again strengthen its safety, resilience and reliability, matters which are an absolute priority. The Welsh Government is delivering for the region and our commitment and investment in the road network clearly demonstrates that.”