A crucial step has been taken towards enhancing one of Lincolnshire's busiest junctions with the submission of a planning application for the A46 Nettleham Roundabout improvement scheme. The proposed upgrades are designed to alleviate congestion, improve journey reliability for those travelling between Lincoln, Nettleham, and surrounding communities, and create safer, more accessible facilities for pedestrians and cyclists.
The plans include expanding the existing roundabout, adding extra lanes on approaches, and constructing a new pedestrian and cycle bridge. These measures aim to optimise traffic flow and establish a safer link for communities north of Lincoln and those commuting into and around the city.
Cllr David East, executive member for highways at Lincolnshire County Council, stated, "Submitting the planning application is an important milestone for this project and brings us a step closer to delivering improvements that could make a real difference to the communities and people who use this part of the network every day." He highlighted that the roundabout is one of the busiest in Lincolnshire, with congestion significantly impacting daily commutes, especially during peak hours. The proposals aim to make travel more reliable, reduce delays, and ease pressure on local roads.
Cllr East further emphasised the project's broader scope beyond car travel. "The proposed new pedestrian and cycle bridge would provide a safer and more accessible connection between communities north of Lincoln and the city, including for families, schoolchildren and people using National Cycle Route 1," he said. The council's objective is to make walking and cycling easier and safer options, while also improving conditions for car, public transport, and commercial vehicle users, fostering a better-connected and more accessible network for everyone.
The project is also intended to support future demand, including anticipated traffic growth linked to wider development and the completion of the North Hykeham Relief Road. These improvements will bolster connections between communities, employment sites, and businesses across Central Lincolnshire.
"Lincoln and the surrounding area are continuing to grow, and we need to make sure the infrastructure is in place to support that growth in a way that benefits local communities," added Cllr East. He noted that the improvements would support new homes and jobs, strengthen business connections, and enhance journey dependability. Reduced congestion and stop-start traffic could also lead to better air quality and lower emissions. The benefits for local communities could include more reliable journeys, safer active travel opportunities, and improved connections between villages and the city, representing a long-term investment in Lincolnshire's infrastructure.
The planning application will now undergo the formal planning process, with a decision expected in early 2027. Subject to approval and necessary land and procurement processes, construction is tentatively scheduled to begin in Spring 2027, with completion anticipated in Spring 2028. These timelines are indicative and subject to change.
If approved, the scheme is expected to deliver numerous benefits, including more reliable journeys and reduced congestion around the A46 near Lincoln, less pressure on local roads, and a network better prepared for future growth. It will also improve connections between communities, jobs, and services, enhance links for businesses and supply chains, and provide safer facilities for pedestrians and cyclists, including improved conditions for users of National Cycle Route 1. The project aims to encourage more walking and cycling, reduce emissions, and improve public health.
The projected cost for the scheme ranges between £7.4 million and £12.1 million, with an estimated most likely cost of around £9.5 million. The final cost will be clarified as the project progresses. Funding will be partly sourced from the £20 million capital funding allocated to Lincolnshire County Council through the Greater Lincolnshire Combined County Authority devolution deal in 2024, with the remainder coming from the county council's highways allocations from central government.
Further information about this project is available at: www.lincolnshire.gov.uk/nettlehamroundabout.
