National Highways has released new aerial pictures showing works to create the ‘missing’ Junction 2 of the M55 nearing completion.
The junction is part of the Preston Western Distributor Road (PWDR) project. The new road will link the M55 to a new junction with Blackpool Road at Lea and the new motorway junction is being constructed between Swillbrook and Higher Bartle.
Lancashire County Council and main contractor Costain are delivering the wider scheme and building the new junction for National Highways.
The new aerial pictures show the four junction slip roads and two roundabouts, which are linked by a new bridge over the motorway in a ‘dumb-bell’ arrangement, taking shape.
Contractors are also working to install new electronic signs and other equipment at locations alongside the motorway on either side of the new junction.
Brian Smith, senior project manager for National Highways, said: ‘It’s starting to look like a proper motorway junction now and it’s on course to be completed and open to drivers next spring - supporting the local economy and relieving congestion at other junctions along the motorway.’
Aidy Riggott, cabinet member for economic development and growth at Lancashire County Council, said: ‘The Preston Western Distributor is ten years in the making, and is much more than your average road scheme.
‘Not only will it improve connectivity across the county, but it will open up new housing sites and create more development opportunities, boosting Lancashire’s inward investment potential. Access to the M55 motorway and the wider national motorway network will be vastly improved, and the scheme will also help to relieve congestion on the existing road network.
‘Our teams have made unbelievable progress since construction begin in 2019 and are now focused on making sure this major scheme is ready to be opened up to the public next spring.’
