NI1 roadworks delays
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LORRIES should continue to use the M1 near Hemel Hempsted in July, despite expected delays caused by roadworks on a 200 yard stretch of the motorway, Transport Minister Lynda Chalker said last week.
Announcing major works at Junction 8, she advised that lighter vehicles should divert from the trouble spot and "leave the motorway clear for the necessary traffic".
Reconstruction work was essential, even though this section is the second busiest section of motorway in the country, carrying 120,000 vehicles a day, Mrs Chalker said.
The original concrete is breaking up, and it now needs "urgent renewal which must be done so that traffic to and from the M25 can benr fit," she said.
Between July 2 and 16, the motorway around Junction 8 will be reduced to two lanes in both directions.
Mrs Chalker warned that all drivers should listen to the radio for news of delays before they leave, and allow at least an extra hour for their journeys.
And if there is a minor incident, tailbacks could grow at up to five miles an hour, and around 10 miles an hour if there is a fairly major incident, she admitted. There will also be extra problems before 10am and after 4pin.
A short diversion for the M10 northbound traffic, joining the M1 in the area and leaving it at Junction 8, negotiating the Buncefield roundabout, and rejoining by the north slip road, will also bring complications.
The St Albans ban on lorries over 7.5 tonnes gvw will also block one possible route of escape from the jams. But for those heading for Hemel Hempsted, Mrs Chalker advised that they leave the motorway at Junctions 5 or 6 northbound, or Junction 9 southbound and follow the signs.
Information about current traffic conditions will be supplied to local and national radio, as well as ITV's Oracle and BBC's Cecfax teletext services.
Hertfordshire Police will also run a phone-in news service on 01-571 9010.
The Road Haulage Association is warning its members to make up their own minds on how to cope in the light of their own operations. But it points out that there is a lack of good alternative routes in the area to avoid the jams.
The Freight Transport Association advises its members to stay on the Ml.