Clearance work to begin as part of roads upgrade

Motorists have been warned to expect disruption as work begins on a project designed to improve a busy route in Nottinghamshire.

Site clearance work, including removing hedgerows, vegetation and some trees, will take place at Lowdham roundabout on 26 and 27 February, with fencing due to be installed on 2 and 4 March.

Similar clearance work will then be carried out on the A6097 at Kirk Hill, near East Bridgford, from 2 to 6 March.

The work is part of the A614/A6097 major road network scheme, which aims to improve the route between Ollerton and Lowdham. Temporary traffic lights will be in operation while the work takes place.

When completed, the project will see additional lanes created and junctions upgraded to relieve traffic issues in the area.

It is also designed to support new housing developments in Edwinstowe, Ollerton, Blidworth and Newton.

East Midlands Mayor Claire Ward said: "It's great to see the A614/A6097 scheme reach this first milestone. These early works are essential for preparing the sites for construction whilst protecting local wildlife.

"We know temporary traffic measures may cause some disruption, and I thank residents and motorists for their patience."

Bert Bingham, Nottinghamshire County Council's cabinet member for transport and environment, added: "The announcement of these site clearance works is positive news for the wider scheme as it marks the first step towards the junction upgrades becoming a reality.

"We know that news of these clearance works may cause concern and I would like to reassure both residents and motorists that these works will be taking place under ecological supervision to ensure that protected species and birds are not disturbed.

"These works are necessary to allow our teams to progress with the archaeological investigations which will begin on site in March.

"We know that the temporary traffic management measures which will be installed as part of these works may cause some disruption to residents and motorists and I would like to offer my thanks in advance for your cooperation and understanding."

Further works on the wider A614/A6097 scheme will begin in the summer.

Follow BBC Nottingham on Facebook, on X, or on Instagram. Send your story ideas to eastmidsnews@bbc.co.uk or via WhatsApp on 0808 100 2210.