Essex County Council has entrusted Octavius Infrastructure with a major £15m contract to build a crucial section of the Chelmsford North East Bypass.
- The project aims to bolster Chelmsford’s infrastructure by connecting key areas and supporting the city’s economic and housing growth plans.
- Scheduled to commence in early 2025, the work on section 1A will be pivotal in enhancing regional links and transportation.
- The bypass will integrate with new developments, including Beaulieu Park Station, designed to streamline access to vital transport networks.
- Key stakeholders have expressed confidence in the transformational potential of the Chelmsford North East Bypass.
Essex County Council has taken a significant step by awarding a £15m contract to Octavius Infrastructure for designing and constructing section 1A of the Chelmsford North East Bypass. This strategic project is anticipated to begin in early 2025 and reach completion by spring 2026.
The bypass is a forward-thinking initiative by Essex County Council, aimed at fostering housing and economic growth in northern Chelmsford. Section 1A of the bypass is designed to link the southern Beaulieu Parkway to the A12 at Boreham Interchange via the Beaulieu Parkway Bridge. This connection is expected to be crucial in enhancing transportation links across the region.
Moreover, the bypass will converge with a new link road to the north, forming part of the Chelmsford Garden Community project. It will also connect to the Wheelers Hill roundabout on A131 Essex Regiment Way. Together, the Chelmsford North East Bypass and Beaulieu Park Station projects represent a substantial, £250m investment in regional infrastructure, facilitated by Essex County Council.
Cllr Tom Cunningham, who serves as the Essex County Council cabinet member for highways, infrastructure, and transport, has underscored the importance of this development. He emphasised that Chelmsford is a pivotal player in the regional economy, and highlighted the necessity of advancing the bypass scheme to enable growth and development. He stated, “It is vital for the prosperity of Chelmsford that we progress with the first phase of the bypass scheme and developers deliver the associated link road.”
Jamie Harrison, Director of Octavius, expressed enthusiasm for the project, acknowledging the opportunity to strengthen long-term partnerships with local councils and communities. Harrison remarked, “We are delighted to have been selected to progress the first phase of this important and strategic highway project.”
The commencement of the bypass’s initial phase is marked by the completion of a new bridge. Additional works involve clearing a silt lagoon and filling two other lagoons. These preparatory activities are already underway, laying the groundwork for future construction.
The Chelmsford North East Bypass, along with Beaulieu Park Station, signifies a major step towards enhancing Chelmsford’s infrastructure and economic landscape.
