A21 project enters new phase

The dualling of the A21 between Tonbridge and Pembury has moved into a major new phase.

The next phase will see traffic moved on to new slip roads so a new flyover can be constructed at the Longfield Road junction and a new junction constructed at Fairthorne.

It will also involve the temporary closure of Tonbridge Road which is one of two roads leading to the Pembury Hospital; contingency plans have already been agreed to allow emergency access to Pembury Hospital in the event that the other road is closed. We have also worked closely with the hospital to minimise the impact of the road closure.

Work started on the scheme in April 2015 and has already involved constructing new slip roads, moving an ancient woodland, removing a Grade II listed building which will be rebuilt in a museum, and a variety of measures for protected species.

Highways England project manager Anne-Marie Palmer said: “This scheme will deliver huge benefits to people travelling on this part of the A21 in Kent, and further afield, between Hastings and London. We have achieved a lot so far and now we are ready for the next phase of the work, which will see the construction of a new flyover at the Longfield Road junction and a new junction at Fairthorne. Once complete this scheme will increase traffic capacity, and the junction upgrades and improvements to the road layout will improve safety.”