Drivers warned of A52 disruption as works continue

Drivers are being warned to expect disruption as a series of improvement works continue along the A52 in Nottingham.

National Highways said it was investing millions of pounds into the route - one of the city's busiest roads - to improve safety, reduce congestion and create better facilities for pedestrians and cyclists.

A mix of lane restrictions, overnight closures and weekend work will be needed over the coming months.

The changes will include the route reverting to a 24-hour one-way system for eastbound traffic between the Priory and Queen's Medical Centre (QMC) roundabouts.

From 20 January, motorists heading towards the city centre will be able to use the route, but westbound traffic will be diverted while work continues on a new shared footway and cycleway past Wollaton Park.

The overall improvement scheme between the Priory and QMC roundabouts, which will see westbound bus stops suspended, began in May last year and is due to be completed in spring.

Temporary eastbound bus stops will be in place near the Priory and QMC roundabouts.

Several overnight closures are also planned at the QMC roundabout as part of resurfacing and safety work, including over the following dates:

• Monday 12 January to Friday 16 January (20:00 GMT to 06:00): Overnight closures will take place, with access to the QMC only via the southern entrance from Abbey Street
• Monday 19 January to Friday 23 January (20:00 to 06:00): The A52 will be closed in both directions between the Priory and QMC roundabouts overnight while safety fencing is installed.

Matt Carruthers, programme delivery manager for National Highways, said the scheme was "progressing well".

"Works can be impacted by a number of factors out of our control, including severe weather, but it is too early yet to say if the winter conditions will delay the scheme," he said.

"We are constantly reviewing our construction programme and would look to reduce any delays should they occur because of the weather.

"Once completed, this scheme will bring this key road up to modern standards and improve journeys for the thousands of drivers who use it every day."

The works in Nottingham form part of a wider programme of improvements along the A52 in south Nottinghamshire.

Earlier schemes have already been carried out at four smaller junctions at Bingham, Stragglethorpe, Silverdale and Gamston.

The largest parts of the project involve the Nottingham Knight and Wheatcroft roundabouts, where layouts are being altered and cut-throughs added to help ease congestion and shorten journey times.

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