The schedule for reopening roads around the UCLan Masterplan development is being delayed.
AdvertisementThe reopening of Friargate, Walker Street and Moor Lane won’t take place until September, while the reopening of Adelphi Street is now planned for December.
A spokesperson for UCLan said the delay has been caused by Covid-19, plus unforeseen drainage work.
The Balfour Beatty construction team has continued to work through the lockdown, but social distancing has meant reduced working efficiencies. The team was also required to revise the drainage plans following inspections, which caused further delays.
Local businesses remain accessible by foot, with additional parking available nearby on Friargate and Adelphi Street. UCLan car parks are also available and free for public use at weekends.
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Balfour Beatty Operations Manager, Graeme Moffat, said: “As a result of the tenacity and hard work of our teams and supply chain partners, we’ve worked efficiently and safely through Covid-19 to continue delivering works whilst also reducing any disruption to the travelling public.
“The team are delivering all works strictly adhering to Balfour Beatty’s Covid-19 Site Operating Procedures, which are fully aligned to the latest UK Government guidelines to ensure the continued health, safety and wellbeing of all those who work for and with us.”
Michael Ahern, UCLan’s Chief Information and Infrastructure Officer, said: “We apologise for any inconvenience caused by this delay. These are extraordinary times, but we have all done our absolute best to keep the project moving.
“Keeping everyone safe on site has been our priority but the social distancing measures, together with the additional drainage work, means the reopening of both roads will now take place later than planned.
“We would again like to thank everyone for their continued patience as we progress these essential highways changes. We are extremely pleased with the work already completed which is of a very high standard and will be transformational for all our community stakeholders.”
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The highways scheme will complement the University’s £60 million Student Centre and new civic square, a key part of its £200 million Campus Masterplan.
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To keep informed of any travel updates and for more detail about current highways information and diversions, visit the UCLan Masterplan website or follow the latest updates on Twitter.
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Will you be affected by the continued road closures? Let us know in the comments.