Balfour Beatty has been appointed to dual a congested section of the A21 in Kent between Tonbridge and Pembury.

Advance works on the £70M improvement will begin this autumn ahead of main construction activity starting next spring. WSP has been appointed as lead designer.

Upgrading the 4km section of road is desperately needed to relieve traffic delays and improve safety. A Public Inquiry last year heard that the project is likely to improve journey times by up to 65% and reduce the number of collisions by 60%.

The project will involve adding a lane in each direction and construction of an over bridge, two underpasses and a grade separated junction.

Segregated access roads will be provided for existing properties, with the installation of a separate footpath/cycle way throughout the length of the scheme.

Highways Agency project manager Graham Link said: “The A21 is a vital route between London and Hastings and connects local towns.

“This scheme will improve journeys by reducing congestion and improving safety for the 35,200 drivers that use this section each day," he added.

Balfour Beatty major projects director Stephen Tarr said: “We are delighted to have been awarded this contract to upgrade the A21. We have a strong track record of delivering major road schemes."

(Photo: Highways Agency)

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