Essex County Council has important updates coming about the start of works to remove the Army and Navy flyover. The work is due to commence imminently. For all the latest news about the project, inc progress with a long-term solution for the junction, sign up to the Army and Navy e-newsletter at www.essex.gov.uk/armyandnavy
" Latest News - 09 January 2020: Contractor appointed for removal of the Army and Navy flyover
A specialist contractor has now been appointed to remove the Army and Navy flyover, with works scheduled to start next month.
Essex County Council announced in September that the flyover in Chelmsford would be permanently closed on safety grounds after a detailed engineering report revealed new defects within its concrete foundations.
The council has since been pressing ahead with plans to have the structure removed as soon as possible while work is also continuing to develop a long-term solution for the junction.
Clarke Demolition Company Limited has now been appointed to carry out the flyover removal, with the works expected to begin in early February 2020.
The steel structure will be safely dismantled section by section, removed from the site and, where possible, recycled. It is anticipated that the majority of the works will take place at night to minimise disruption, although some Sunday closures will be required.
The project is expected to be completed in April 2020, with further details about the works schedule to be confirmed shortly and available on the Army and Navy flyover page.
Cllr Kevin Bentley, Deputy Leader of Essex County Council and Cabinet Member for Infrastructure, said: “I am delighted to be working with Clarke Demolition on this important project and look forward to works starting in February.
“The Army and Navy flyover has been a well-known feature of the Chelmsford skyline for 40 years and its removal will be a historic milestone for the city. Of course, we recognise that the works will cause some disruption and, together with the contractor, we will be doing everything possible to minimise any inconvenience caused.
“The Army and Navy is a crucial gateway to Chelmsford and we are also continuing to assess potential options for a long-term solution at the junction.
“Steps are already being taken to reduce the programme, however we must also ensure we get it right so that any improvements encourage more sustainable travel and avoid putting additional pressure on other roads in the city centre.”
David Clarke, Managing Director of Clarke Demolition Company Limited, added: “We are delighted to be involved with the removal of this local landmark.
“Having also removed the old viaduct over the River Chelmer in 2016, it is a matter of great pride to have the opportunity once again to continue helping with the improvements being made in the region.
“We will work as safely and quickly as possible, out of normal working hours to minimise any disruption to the public.”
