Good news for drivers as roadworks set to finish six months early

Major roadworks on the M6 in Staffordshire are set to finish six months ahead of schedule thanks to the introduction of a contraflow system.

The upgrade of the 17-mile stretch of motorway by Highways England was due to be completed in March 2022, but drivers can now expect the work to end in September next year.

The contraflow system was introduced last year and has reduced the number of motorway closures needed by around half, as well as getting work done more quickly.

Highways England spokesperson Peter Smith said:

“We are always looking for ways to get work done as quickly as possible and were acutely aware that such a major scheme was likely to cause some disruption for road users and the local community for quite a long time.

“That is why we introduced the contraflow and we are delighted that it has proved so effective and shaved six months off the scheme.

“We were also able to keep working and make progress despite the COVID19 pandemic, by introducing the appropriate measures to keep our workers safe.

“As ever, we are grateful to people for their patience during this work and are happy that we have been able to spare them at least six months disruption.”

Highways England is increasing capacity between junctions 13 (Stafford) and 15 (Stoke-on-Trent) by turning the hard shoulder into an extra traffic lane and installing up-to-date technology that will help keep traffic flowing more smoothly.   

A major motorway upgrade will usually require up to 450 full motorway closures to complete construction work. By using a contraflow, the number of full closures needed on this scheme has been reduced by around half, benefiting local people and drivers.