National Highways sets out new timeline for permanent repairs to A1 near Peterborough after fatal crash 18 months ago

A section of the A1 near Peterborough is likely to be permanently repaired in 2027 after a fatal crash nearly two years ago caused major damage to a culvert.

The southbound carriageway of the A1 at Water Newton was damaged in November 2024 during a fatal crash involving an agricultural vehicle.

The crash caused significant damage to the Billing Brook culvert, leading to the nearside lane being closed for nearly a year.

Work to fully reopen both lanes was completed in November last year, but a temporary speed limit remains in place.

Repairs at the site have been complicated due to Billing Brook running into a Site of Special Scientific Interest and local archaeological factors, including a nearby historic Roman town.

National Highways has now confirmed that work to permanently repair the damaged culvert will not start until 2027, surpassing two years since the crash.

A National Highways spokesperson said: “We restored the A1 southbound at Water Newton back to two lanes last year and have since been planning the best solution for a permanent repair.

“This will be extensive and complex work to plan and construct an entirely new culvert to replace the damaged structure. “We will begin preparations this year so we can start work on the permanent repair in 2027.”

Rather than just repairing the damaged section, National Highways’ preferred solution is to renew the culvert for its entire length which will also mean the structure will be built to modern standards.

A reduced speed limit will remain in place during these works.