Major junction reopens to motorists after delays

One of Northampton's biggest road junctions is set to fully reopen ahead of the weekend after improvements were finally completed following months of delays.

Contractors first started improvements on the Queen Eleanor Interchange last March, with the job originally scheduled to be finished by the end of 2025.

In November, however, West Northamptonshire Council said "new risks" and additional work would push completion back.

But the authority said the "comprehensive upgrade" had now been finished.

"The completion of this project is great news and reflects the council's commitment to investing in a modern, reliable network that supports our residents' current and future transport needs," said councillor Richard Butler, cabinet member for highways and transport.

"We are grateful to motorists for their patience throughout the works, which will provide lasting benefits for safety, efficiency and connectivity."

The interchange is about 450m (0.3 miles) from one of three remaining stone crosses erected by King Edward I in memory of his wife, Eleanor of Castile.

It links the A45 with the A508 London Road into the town centre, the Newport Pagnell Road and Hardingstone Lane.

Delivered in partnership with WSP, Kier and National Highways, the council believes the project will "support economic growth, boost capacity, and cut congestion".

Over the last 12 months, more than four full‑sized football pitches' worth of new road surface have been laid and the concrete subway has been widened.

New kerbs and traffic signals have also been installed, grass verges have been reinstated, and additional lanes and CCTV coverage have been introduced.

Pedestrian routes have been upgraded, too, designed to improve safety and accessibility for cyclists and those on foot.

Allan Rigby, general manager at Kier Infrastructure, said he had been "pleased to see the project completed to a high standard".

"All partners involved have worked tirelessly to deliver a scheme that strengthens a critical part of the network," he said.

"The improvements made here will support growth, reduce delays and improve the day-to-day experience for road users.

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