Warm welcome for news that contractor appointed for Long Stratton bypass

Another key step forward in the Long Stratton bypass project has been achieved with the news today that Octavius Infrastructure Limited has been appointed to build the new route.

Cllr Graham Plant, Cabinet Member for Highways, Infrastructure and Transport, said: "This is another welcome milestone we've reached in this vital infrastructure project. The 3.9km road will not only solve the transport issues caused by the bottleneck on the A140 - which is a major local route - but also open-up improvements for cycling and walking in and around the town. Once in place the scheme will cut congestion, unlock economic growth, and improve journey times across the county."

Cllr Alison Thomas, County Councillor for Long Stratton, said, "This is great news as seeing this project continue to push forward is very welcome - not only for those who live and work in Long Stratton but also for the thousands of people who use the route and experience first-hand the daily delays and frustrations brought by the current situation."

Gavin Pritchard, Managing Director Highways,Octavius Infrastructure Limited, said: "We are delighted to be working with Norfolk County Council on such a key project, bringing significant benefits to the Long Stratton community and the wider transport network. Our carbon reduction measures, the protection and enhancement of the local environment, and the significant sourcing of local suppliers in this region reflects our strong commitment to our sustainability and social value goals for this project."

Following initial preparation works which will be taking place over the coming months, the target date for the main construction work to start on the bypass is Spring 2024. For more information visit www.norfolk.gov.uk/strattonbypass

Further information

The full business case which has now been submitted to Government - estimates the overall cost of delivering the route at £46.9m. The project would be mainly externally funded with a minimum of 70% from the DfT's Major Road Network Fund and up to 30% from local contributions made up primarily of developer contributions and Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL) contributions.

Norfolk County Council has worked in collaboration with South Norfolk Council (SNC), Norfolk Homes Ltd and Norfolk Land Ltd to develop proposals for the route, which was granted full planning permission by South Norfolk Council in September 2023, along with the creation of 1,875 new homes, new employment land and a site for a new primary school.

The Greater Norwich Growth Board (GNGB) have also agreed arrangements with SNC for the forward funding of a £4.5m developer contribution, which is in addition to the up to £10m Community Infrastructure Levy supported contribution, they have already pledged to the project.

Main construction work is set to start on the bypass in Spring 2024 - with an 18-month construction period and the road open to traffic by the end of 2025, subject to procurement and all statutory processes being met.