Countywide programme to help protect local roads will happen this summer
Preventative treatment will extend the life of Lincolnshire roads and help prevent future deterioration and potholes
A major countywide programme to preserve and protect local roads has begun today in Market Rasen and will soon be moving through towns and villages across Lincolnshire.
The programme will see approximately 67,299 square metres of carriageway treated, equivalent to the same length as 2,831 tennis courts, with much of the work focused on residential estate roads that communities rely on every day.
Cllr David East, executive member for Highways at Lincolnshire County Council, said: "This programme is all about protecting local roads before problems develop and making sure we get the best possible value from our investment in Lincolnshire's highways network.
"Rather than waiting for roads to deteriorate and require more extensive repairs, we're taking proactive action to preserve them while they are still in good condition. That helps us extend the life of the road, reduce the risk of potholes forming and minimise the need for more disruptive maintenance in the future.
"Many of these roads are at the heart of our communities, serving residents every day. By investing now, we're helping to keep them in good condition for longer, and supporting the places where people live."
Location of works
The programme will start in Market Rasen before progressing through:
- Market Rasen
- Middle Rasen
- Nettleton
- Louth
- Gainsborough
- Laughterton
- Lincoln
- Marton
- Saxilby
- Tattershall
- Witham St Hughs
- Ashby de la Launde
- Woodhall Spa
- Grantham
- Long Sutton
- Bracebridge Heath
- Ruskington
Road users can view the individual roads and planned dates through the council's live online programme at: www.lincolnshire.gov.uk/maintenance/road-maintenance/9
What is road preservation?
Road preservation is a cost-effective preventative treatment that helps protect road surfaces from ageing and deterioration. It looks like a dark layer of material that’s been painted onto the current road surface, the reality is that this method is well worth doing for the benefits it brings to the Lincolnshire road network.
The treatment seals small cracks and voids in the road surface, creating a waterproof barrier that prevents water from entering and damaging the carriageway. By tackling issues at an early stage, the treatment can significantly extend the life of the road and reduce the likelihood of potholes and more extensive repairs being needed later.
The works are carried out during the summer months because the treatment requires warm and dry weather conditions.
Dates and times
The programme is due to begin on Monday, 27 July.
Working and road closure hours will generally be between 7.30am and 5.00pm, although work on individual roads may begin later depending on progress elsewhere on the programme.
Roads will reopen as soon as the treatment has cured, and it is safe to do so.
Traffic management
Road closures will be required while the preservation treatment is being applied.
Vehicle access will not be possible while a road closure is in place, including for residents. Affected households are therefore encouraged to move any vehicles they may need before 7.30am and arrange deliveries and visitors outside the working hours.
Advance warning signs will be installed ahead of the works, with letters and information leaflets delivered directly to properties affected by the programme.
LCC has also reviewed the programme against household waste and recycling collection days. Wherever possible, works have been scheduled to avoid collection days. Where any conflicts remain, the relevant district council has been informed.
Cllr David East added: "Road preservation may not be as visible as major reconstruction projects, but it is one of the most effective ways we can protect our network for the long term.
"These treatments help us keep roads in serviceable condition, reduce future maintenance costs and invest in the communities that rely on them every day.
"We understand that road closures can be inconvenient and would like to thank residents in advance for their patience while these important works are carried out."
The live programme will be updated as works progress. Dates may occasionally change at short notice due to weather conditions, emergency works or operational requirements.