Plans to develop enhanced transport links across North Lincolnshire have taken a step forward with Phase 1 of the major M181 ‘southern junction’ infrastructure scheme now complete.
The multi-million-pound project led by North Lincolnshire Council in partnership with National Highways, involved the construction of a new junction on the M181, known as the ‘southern junction’. This junction serves as the terminating point of the motorway and facilitates future development phases which will connect the M181 with Burringham Road, Lincolnshire Lakes, and the western areas of Scunthorpe.
North of England contractor, Esh Construction, has delivered the works – utilising National Highways funding from the Government – in partnership with North Lincolnshire Council.
The latest milestone follows Esh’s delivery of the Northern Junction in 2021 which marked the first upgraded development of the motorway network in North Lincolnshire since it opened in 1978. The Northern Junction unlocked 550 acres of commercial and residential development as part of the Lincolnshire Lakes project, including the recently announced Fore Point scheme, a 77-acre employment park which features as a focal point of the Lincolnshire Lakes development.
Phase 1 of the southern junction infrastructure scheme represents more than £10 million of investment in the area including the northern junction. With investment from Government through National Highways and Great Lincolnshire LEP supporting the Council’s bold vision for the future of North Lincolnshire.
Steven Garrigan, Divisional Director at Esh Construction said: “We’re proud to deliver Phase 1 of this key infrastructure project. Our focus throughout has been on quality and collaboration, and we’re also pleased to hand over the completed Southern Junction which facilitates the wider plans for the Council to regenerate the local area.”
Cllr Rob Waltham, leader of North Lincolnshire Council, said: “This is a key milestone in the M181 project. The completion of phase one of the southern junction is an exciting development as it means we are a step closer to reducing congestion and cutting commuting times to and from Scunthorpe. We are keeping our promise to put infrastructure in first ahead of new homes or business.
“Burringham bypass will not only make a difference for the residents of Burringham but will have a wider impact on drivers using Berkeley Circle and commuters coming from Ashby, Bottesford and Messingham.”
National Highways Project Manager Sujad Hussain said: “We enjoy an excellent working relationship with North Lincolnshire Council. We are delighted that our collaboration on this vital scheme will help to create development and regeneration in the area.”
Through its Constructing Local strategy, Esh delivered 46 apprentice weeks and 32 hours of volunteering, and is also overseeing a £25,000 café refurbishment at Lindsay Lodge Hospice.
The project was the first one that Esh secured through YORhub’s YORcivil3 framework and was delivered in partnership with Alan Wood & Partners and Mason Clark Associates.
We’re proud to deliver Phase 1 of this key infrastructure project. Our focus throughout has been on quality and collaboration, and we’re also pleased to hand over the completed Southern Junction which facilitates the wider plans for the Council to regenerate the local area.”
