Major government-backed road scheme promises faster journeys, reduced congestion and long-term economic growth
Thousands of people across Lincolnshire are set to benefit from quicker journeys and new economic opportunities after the government confirmed more than £110 million in funding for the long-awaited North Hykeham Relief Road.
Construction is due to begin next month on the new dual carriageway linking the A46 and the A15, a project expected to transform travel in and around Lincoln. The scheme will play a crucial role in supporting the delivery of around 4,500 new homes while improving access to jobs and services.
The relief road is designed to tackle long-standing congestion issues, easing traffic through nearby villages, improving road safety and cutting journey times for commuters, businesses and freight. By improving connections into Lincoln, the route is also expected to open up new employment opportunities across the region.
Beyond cars, the project includes dedicated walking and cycling infrastructure, giving residents safer and more sustainable travel options for everyday journeys.
Roads and Buses Minister, Simon Lightwood, said: “Roads are a key link for communities, boosting access to opportunities and jobs, which is why I am delighted to confirm funding for this project.
We’re putting our money where our mouth is, with a £110 million investment that will mean faster journeys and less congestion. I look forward to seeing how it will transform Lincolnshire moving forward”.
First proposed in the mid-2000s, the North Hykeham Relief Road has been anticipated for years. Formal confirmation from the Department for Transport now clears the way for construction to move ahead.
Work is expected to get underway in mid-March, with completion scheduled for May 2029. Once finished, the road is set to become a key piece of infrastructure supporting housing growth, economic development and smoother travel across Lincoln and the wider county.
Cllr Sean Matthews, Leader of Lincolnshire County Council, said: “This is a huge milestone for the project. We’ve now cleared the final hurdle of getting the final piece of Lincoln’s ring road built. Now that all funding for the scheme is in place, our focus will be on making sure Balfour Beatty is ready to hit the ground running ahead of breaking ground in March.
This road will offer huge economic benefits when it’s finished, including opening up land for 4,500 homes and 7 hectares of employment space. It will also contribute £800 million in economic benefits for the county over the next 60 years, which is a massive amount”.
Simon Beardsley, Chief Executive Officer for Lincolnshire Chamber of Commerce, said: “The progress of the North Hykeham Relief Road is a truly exciting milestone for Lincolnshire, signalling real momentum behind one of the county’s most significant infrastructure investments.
This project will play a vital role in improving connectivity, reducing congestion and supporting long-term growth, benefiting local businesses, attracting inward investment and strengthening our communities’.