Works to repair cracking surface of Peterborough to Whittlesey bridge delayed into 2026

Work has been ongoing since July to repair cracks that have appeared in the road surface near the centre of the carriageway on the causeway at King’s Dyke, between Peterborough and Whittlesey. There has been a lane closure in place on the road since July 2024.

Initially repair works, which would allow the road to fully reopen, were set to last until December 8 but construction company Jones Bros has informed the council that the current programme of works has been delayed until at latest the end of January 2026.

Cambridgeshire County Council said: “The remedial work being carried out on the Ralph Butcher Causeway, at King’s Dyke, is being done by Jones Bros, who are responsible for this work. They have informed us this week that the current construction programme has been delayed. This is due to the length of time it has taken for the soil nailing and a delay to the start of the sprayed concrete.

“Whilst this is not acceptable and we’re clearly disappointed, we are pushing Jones Bros along with their contractors to ensure this work is done as quickly as possible and to reduce the programme delay. We want to be able to re-open the road at the earliest possible opportunity, but in a safe manner.

“The installation of the reinforcement for the sprayed concrete is progressing along the 70-degree embankment, with the application of the concrete for the first section due to start on Monday 24 November.

“The concrete works, which is the final activity that must be finished before the road can be reopened back to two-way traffic, is due to be completed before the end of January 2026.”

So far, more than 750 soil nails have been installed to stabilise the ground underneath the road surface.

The council added: “During the application of the sprayed concrete over the coming weeks, temporary hoarding will be visible at the top of the embankment. This will be installed to protect the open lane of traffic from any potential overspray.

“We are aware this work will take us through the winter period, and there have been issues with flood affected roads in the wider area. The works on the B1040 Dog in a Doublet bridge were completed last year, which has improved the resilience against flooding.

"In the event roads are closed due to flooding, there will be clear signed diversions in place, we'll be doing extra maintenance inspections in the area to ensure the roads and drains are kept up to standard and working with streetworks and partners to minimise other planned works where possible.”

The costs for the works are being fully met by Jones Bros. The council will not accept ownership of the bridge until the remediation work is addressed.