M27: Contractor Volker Fitzpatrick appointed too build new junction 10 for Welborne

The new town of Welborne is being built on fields north of the motorway, between Fareham and Wickham.

READ THIS: School meals

Because the current layout of junction 10 only allows drivers to join the M27 eastbound – towards Portsmouth – and leave it westbound, it was decided that the intersection would have to be extended to an ‘all ways’ junction before Welborne was started in earnest.

Obtaining cash for the work took several years – which meant that the cost of the project increased – but in March it was announced that Homes England would be contributing £41.25m. The other £40m will come from the Welborne developers.

Now Hampshire County Council has appointed Volker Fitzpatrick as its design and build contractor, with construction work due to start next year.

Councillor Edward Heron, the county council’s executive lead member for transport and environment strategy, said: ‘With the development of the new garden village at Welborne, it is important that the necessary road infrastructure is put in place to secure the full benefits for the local economy and communities.

‘As the highway authority for the local road network, the county council is very experienced at successfully managing the development and delivery of large transport projects on our own road network. However, the construction of a new motorway underpass on the M27, which is managed by National Highways, is technically complex and requires expert and specialist engineering knowledge. I am confident that Volker Fitzpatrick, supported by Ramboll, will be a very able partner to this end. We are very proud to be leading this important milestone project, but we do not underestimate the magnitude of the task.’

The upgrade involves a new motorway underpass west of the existing junction, three new slip roads to facilitate an ‘all moves’ arrangement and the construction of a new dual carriageway to link the new slip roads to the existing road network.

Councillor Sean Woodward, executive leader of Fareham Borough Council said: ‘The improvements to Junction 10 are the key to unlocking the new homes at Welborne Garden Village, so it is really good to have VolkerFitzpatrick appointed to undertake this critical piece of infrastructure.’