NEW HIGHWAY DEVELOPMENT IN BLACKPOOL

A new road development project has been launched to connect Amy Johnson Way and Common Edge Road in Blackpool, Northwest England. Due to the site's proximity to the sea, the area presents soft ground conditions, posing significant challenges for construction. To address these challenges, over 5,000m³ of Leca Lightweight Aggregate (LWA) has been specified to enhance ground stability and support the required infrastructure.

Civil Engineering specialists George Cox & Sons LTD were appointed as the main contractors for the project, overseeing the construction and implementation of the new road development.

The primary aim of this development is to improve connectivity and facilitate the construction of new business units, thereby contributing to economic growth and job creation on the Fylde coast. The road will originate from Amy Johnson Way, situated between Multi-Ply and Seneca House, and traverse the old Common Edge playing fields before joining Common Edge Road, just north of South Shore Cricket Club and opposite Lytham St Annes Garden Centre.

FACTS

Amount of material: 5000m3 of LECA LWA (10-20mm)

Interesting Fact: Due to the site's proximity to the sea, the area presents soft ground conditions, posing significant challenges for construction.

Delivery Method: Walking Floor

Main Contractor: George Cox & Sons LTD

Contractor Feedback

Additional Works Include:

Widening Common Edge Road to accommodate increased traffic flow.
Demolishing a house on School Road to allow for junction widening.
Modifying the intersection of Common Edge Road and School Road.
Creating an access road connecting Oakwood Close to the new route.
Implementing designated lanes for traffic entering the new road.

The presence of soft ground made conventional construction methods unsuitable for the project. To mitigate these issues, Leca® LWA was chosen as a lightweight fill material, significantly reducing load-induced settlement and providing a stable foundation for the highway. This innovative approach enhances soil stability while maintaining structural integrity, ensuring long-term durability for the new road.

Construction Phases

Preliminary Works: Site surveys, design validation, and ground improvement using Leca® LWA.
Temporary Lane Construction: A temporary lane was built to maintain two-way traffic throughout the project.
Utility Diversion: Essential service connections were rerouted, with temporary traffic lights used only when necessary.
Main Road Construction: Progressive road laying, junction modifications, and access road integration.
Final Surfacing and Finishing Works: Resurfacing of the final road layers, including potential nighttime work to minimize disruption.

Project Timeline and Cost

Project Duration: 18 months (expected completion by March 2026).
Total Cost: £18.4 million, with £7.5 million funded by a UK Government grant as part of Blackpool’s Town Deal.

Traffic Management and Mitigation Measures

To minimize disruption, Blackpool Council has mandated that two-way traffic be maintained on Common Edge Road whenever possible. Temporary traffic lights will be deployed only when necessary. Additionally, running lanes will be constructed ahead of closures to ensure smooth traffic flow throughout the project.

Public Transport and Active Travel Considerations

A feasibility study is underway to assess the introduction of a bus service along the new route.
The road design integrates active travel pathways, ensuring improved safety for cyclists and pedestrians.

Conclusion

The strategic use of Leca® LWA has played a crucial role in overcoming soft ground conditions, enabling the successful construction of this essential infrastructure project. Upon completion, the new road will enhance regional connectivity, support business growth, and improve transportation efficiency, all while minimizing traffic disruption and ensuring long-term sustainability for Blackpool’s transport network.