Graham has completed work on the new M11 Junction 7A scheme – one of the biggest highways infrastructure projects in Essex
The £76m M11 Junction 7A project saw the widening of Gilden Way to improve access into Harlow. A new link road has also been created, connecting Gilden Way and the junction via new roundabouts.
As part of the project, Graham, in collaboration with Essex County Council, has built a new bridge over the motorway, constructed slip roads for both northbound and southbound traffic, and improved walking and cycling access.
Work started in summer 2020 and funding was provided by the council and National Highways.
Improving access to Harlow to reduce congestion
Cllr Lesley Wagland, Essex County Council’s cabinet member for Economic Renewal, Infrastructure and Planning, said:
“We have created a much-needed new east-west link, significantly improving access to the M11 at Harlow. This will help reduce congestion on the A414 and other routes in the town and support future growth, including the potential creation of up to 3,000 new jobs.”
Matt Stafford, National Highways regional delivery director, said:
“The road is a vital link for work journeys, visits to friends and family, and the movement of goods and services between London and East Anglia, and we’re pleased to have worked in partnership with Essex County Council to deliver this scheme.”
Dave Brown, highways director for Graham Civil Engineering, added: “We’re pleased to have completed construction and delivered this important project in the region.
“The team has worked tirelessly during the programme, which included a challenging bridge beam installation over two weeks.
“The new junction is a testament to our team’s civil engineering expertise and another addition to our growing highways portfolio.”
Charity fun run celebrates opening
The public was given the opportunity to see the final scheme up close before it opened to traffic during a 5km charity fun run. More than 500 participants ran from the London Road Roundabout to the new junction and back.
The fun-run raised money for a local charity supporting children living with cerebral palsy and St Clare Hospice – with match-funding from Graham, they raised over £9,000.
