Fears that revisions to HS2 construction works could lead to long delay in re-opening of major road from Southam to Leamington

Potential revisions to the HS2 construction work programme is set to lead to a long delay in re-opening a major road in the Southam area.
Part of the A425 between Southam and Leamington from the Dallas Burston Polo Club and the Ufton crossroads is being closed for nine months for HS2 works. Image courtesy of Google Maps.Part of the A425 between Southam and Leamington from the Dallas Burston Polo Club and the Ufton crossroads is being closed for nine months for HS2 works. Image courtesy of Google Maps.
Part of the A425 between Southam and Leamington from the Dallas Burston Polo Club and the Ufton crossroads is being closed for nine months for HS2 works. Image courtesy of Google Maps.

HS2 Ltd and its contractors have informed local authorities that the A425 Southam Road closure could now be delayed by almost a year.

The road was originally shut in September 2020 and was due to re-open in June this year.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

To clarify the position of the local authorities regarding the delay to re-opening the road, Warwickshire County Council and Stratford District Council issued the following statement.

A spokesperson for both councils said: “We are deeply concerned to learn that the HS2 construction programme in the Southam area will be delayed and that the A425 Southam Road is to remain closed beyond the original date of June this year.

"Both councils have requested HS2 Ltd to clarify how this delay could be mitigated for our local communities in this area.

“We are currently working closely with each other, Warwick District Council and the emergency services to consider what alternatives HS2 Ltd should now provide to lessen the impact of this delay.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

"A meeting has been scheduled for the end of March to hear the HS2 recommendations.

“We are focusing our immediate energy to take steps to support our communities and local businesses as they to return to more regular pattern of operation, additionally we will ensure the public and school transport system is maintained.

"Furthermore, we are very mindful of the implications for our farming community and how these delays may affect their harvest season and the wider rural economy later this year.

"HS2 will be responsible for keeping the community up to date with the situation

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

“Residents and businesses should contact their the helpdesk directly in the first instance through on freephone 08081 434 434 or email to [email protected] for up-to-date information”

A HS2 spokeswoman said:“Last week we informed the local authorities that we will be unable to re-open the A425 at the time originally expected.

"Regrettably, the schedule has been affected by unforeseen additional works required for utility diversions and unmapped drainage routes, which have combined with delays caused by the pandemic and particularly bad weather.

"We are exploring all options to progress work as quickly as possible and are working with the local authorities to discuss a range of solutions.”

Related topics: