Two important slip roads linking the M2 and A249 will remain closed for an additional 10 days, much to the disappointment of drivers. Originally scheduled to reopen on January 13, National Highways has now postponed the reopening to Monday, January 23. This extension comes just days after officials stated that recent snowfall would not affect the progress of the works.
National Highways confirmed that the surfacing work was completed by the end of the day; however, the final surfacing and white lining could not be finished due to adverse weather conditions. A spokesperson said, “We’re making good progress with the construction of the new coastbound slip roads. Unfortunately, due to recent weather, we’ve been unable to complete the final surfacing and white lining as originally planned. This means we need to keep the slip roads closed for a little longer than we thought. We’re now planning to reopen the slip roads by Monday, January 23, subject to weather conditions.”
This delay coincides with other planned closures on the busy A249. The Sheppey-bound A249 between Stockbury roundabout and Bobbing will close every weekend from 8pm Friday to 5am Monday throughout January, February, and early March. At the same time, lane closures will affect the Maidstone-bound A249 between Bobbing and Stockbury roundabout. Drivers travelling towards Sheppey from Stockbury will be diverted via Maidstone Road, Chestnut Street, and Sheppey Way.
These ongoing works are part of a £92 million project to widen the Stockbury flyover, enhancing the A249 connection to the M2 at junction 5. National Highways remains optimistic about the project’s timeline, stating, “We appreciate that these roadworks may cause delays and disruption and are grateful for people’s patience while we deliver this important upgrade at junction 5 on the M2. Any weather delays have not impacted the project’s completion date, which remains on track.”
Commuters are advised to expect continued disruption through early March as these essential upgrades progress.
Originally published by UKNIP.
