Construction of Norwich Northern Distributor Road (NDR) is on course to pass another significant milestone next week when the bridge that will carry the dual carriageway over Plumstead Road becomes the first to have its main beams lifted into place.
There are eight bridges on the 20km route of the NDR, six going over the dual carriageway, and two carrying the NDR where it goes over Plumstead Road and the Norwich to Sheringham railway.
Plumstead Road closure Plumstead Road will be closed for up to three days from early (between 4 and 5am) on Tuesday 17 January, reopening as soon as possible on Thursday 19 January. The duration of the closure will depend upon progress – the crane cannot lift if the wind is much stronger than a moderate breeze.
Altogether 26 concrete beams will be lifted into place after being brought by road from Ireland. The lifts will mainly be carried out during daylight hours, but work will continue overnight to fit GRP* deck panels ready for the bridge deck concrete to be poured.
Chris Sedman, Project Director for main contractor Balfour Beatty, said: “Getting the first bridge beams in place is another important milestone – especially since it is at Plumstead Road. Along with the adjoining railway bridge, it’s one of the key structures on the route. We aim to have the steel beams over the railway in place in April, and once we are able to bring bulk material across the railway we will be able to focus on the Middle Road bridge.”
Ian Taylor, Project Manager for Norfolk County Council, said the support of the local community was greatly appreciated. “We know that sometimes we cannot avoid making life difficult for people, but we have been heartened that so many share our view that completing construction as soon as possible is best for us all.
“Sharp frosts early in December stopped us getting these beams on before Christmas and unfortunately the road closure now coincides with the longer-term Anglian Water closure on Plumstead Road East close to Aerodrome Road. We apologise for the inconvenience caused. For anyone affected by both closures, using Salhouse Road and Norwich Ring Road will be worth considering.”
Caroline Williams CEO Norfolk Chamber said:“We welcome every milestone which gets us closer to the completion of the NDR. We do not want to see any further delays which could cause the motorist aggravation and hold up the benefits of this new road.”
