Traffic management 60mph contraflow trial on the A1(M), Area 14

Provide a temporary traffic management contraflow system for roadworks during two phases; one phase as a base for comparison with traditional speed of 50mph through roadworks, and the second phase trialling the new 60mph speed limit.

Following the first part of the trail which saw roadwork speeds at 50mph, a challenge was converting to 60mph for the second phase of the trial.

Working collaboratively with other Area 14 supply chain partners, we developed and carried out a contraflow system during road resurfacing works using narrow concrete barriers and trialling the 60mph speed limit.

We supplied traffic management for two phases: phase one was completed at 50mph over a distance of 8.6km. Phase two was trialled over a distance of 7.2km with the speed limit adjusted to 60mph. The works were completed during overnight closures using established contraflow phases, road and lane closures. Utilising overnight closures, the narrow lane system was extended to cover both phases one and two. The buffer zone was moved up the carriageway to cover Phase 2. As works progressed, narrow lanes were removed from Phase 1. When the buffer zone was completely in place, the 50 mph signage was replaced with 60mph signage during overnight closures to mitigate confusion to the public. We installed the Phase two contraflow system during the same night to roll straight into the higher speed trial.

The works were completed over six months.

This scheme was the first contraflow ever at 60mph in the UK, as well as the first time the RB80S lightweight concrete barrier system was used. The use of the RB80S barrier mitigated the need to drill into the new road surface that had been laid within the last year. This trial was also the first time safety gates were used in conjunction with RB80S barriers.

Close collaboration between all A14 contractors on the Framework prior to and during construction ensured working windows were maximised.

The 60mph contraflow trial was successful in demonstrating the safe passage of travel through works with minimal disruption. Safety of workforce and road users was the number one priority throughout the works.

The scheme was designed to increase speed compliance, decrease journey times, and provide a reduction in tailgating and close following. No complaints were received, and road users experienced well maintained traffic flows. Positive feedback for improved journey times was documented and zero incidents recorded.

The scheme review has driven continuous improvement across Area 14 and Highway England’s 60mph programme. Results have influenced best practice for further 60mph trials.