Safer Journeys: The M6 Carlisle North Upgrade

Lost Time Injury Rate

Positive Observation No.

109

Community Satisfaction %

M6 Carlisle North project is to enhance safety and provide a seamless travel experience for road users and the local community, a comprehensive project was undertaken along the M6 near Carlisle.

This project encompassed multiple improvements, such as resurfacing the main motorway carriageway, upgrading junction 44's roundabout, and introducing an advanced noise barrier in the vicinity.

Acknowledgment to AE Yates Ltd as Principal Contractor.

Project Overview: This programme spanned a nine-month period and combined various enhancements into a single project, strategically minimising disruptions for drivers. The approach drew inspiration from the successful A66 Eden Valley project executed around Penrith a year prior. Key Improvements:

1. Resurfacing Carriageways: The project involved the resurfacing of both the northbound and southbound carriageways between junctions 44 and 45, significantly enhancing road quality and safety.

2. Roundabout Upgrade: A comprehensive resurfacing effort was undertaken for the junction 44 roundabout, complemented by improved road markings to enhance driver guidance and safety.

3. Acoustic Barrier Enhancement: To mitigate the impact of noise on the community, a state-of-the-art acoustic barrier was installed along the northbound carriageway near Todhills. This barrier provided enhanced noise protection, benefiting the local populace.

Phases and Execution:

The project was executed in two well-defined phases. The initial phase, commencing in April, encompassed carriageway resurfacing and acoustic barrier improvements. This phase required overnight lane closures and periodic speed restrictions. The subsequent phase concentrated on the roundabout upgrade, entailing overnight closures of the junction over a span of five weekends.

Positive Outcomes:

- Improved Noise Protection: Residents near Todhills along the southbound M6 experienced a significant improvement in noise protection. The new advanced acoustic barrier effectively shielded them from the intrusive noise of traffic.

- Enhanced Travel Experience: The project's comprehensive upgrade resulted in a safer, quieter, and more efficient travel experience for all users of this vital route.

Collaborative Approach:

To ensure alignment with regional interests, National Highways collaborated closely with what was Cumbria County Council and local businesses. Throughout the project's lifecycle, they actively provided updates, including details about lane closures and junction modifications, to keep the public informed and engaged.

Cllr Keith Little's Perspective:

Cllr Keith Little, Cumbria County Council’s Cabinet Member for Highways and Transport, warmly embraced this significant investment in the M6. He emphasized its far-reaching impact on road safety and the overall well-being of the community.

Project Manager Jobert Fermilan stated, “This work will ensure people using this part of Cumbria can continue to enjoy safe and smooth M6 journeys.”