Work has started on Freetown Way in Hull to restore two traffic lanes in each direction and install off-carriageway cycling facilities. The project is expected to take six months to complete.
Initial work narrows lanes, alters crossings
The latest phase covers the section east of Blundell’s Corner up to the Wright Street junction. Hull City Council appointed PBS Construction Ltd to carry out the work, which includes reconstructing footways, revising the Wright Street junction, and installing new traffic signals incorporating cycling provision.
Work began on 14 September 2023. Initial activity focuses on the southern footway between Wright Street and Pryme Street, involving excavation for the cycle track, rebuilding the footway, and kerb realignment to make room for two lanes of traffic.
Traffic management is in place with narrowed lanes. The southern footway from Pryme Street to Wright Street is closed. Vehicular access from Pryme Street onto Freetown Way is also restricted. Pedestrians are directed via Wright Street, and the Pryme Street controlled crossing is closed, with an alternative crossing at Charles Street available. A new crossing at Pryme Street is scheduled to open early in 2027.
Businesses worry about customer access
Nearby traders are concerned the changes to crossings and access could reduce footfall during the works. Richard Hall, landlord of The County pub, told the BBC that difficulties crossing Freetown Way could significantly affect customers.
An employee at a local gift shop expressed similar worries over the potential loss of trade.
Council aims to limit disruption
Councillor Mark Ieronimo, portfolio holder for transportation, roads and highways at Hull City Council, said the authority was aware of business concerns. He added the work was scheduled to minimise disruption, with major traffic management activities planned after the Christmas period.
He said: “Over the next six months this will be fairly straightforward. There might be some minor traffic management but we’ve timed this so that there’s the least impact on drivers. We appreciate as you approach Christmas you don’t want to be stuck in traffic.”
Balancing construction and business needs
The Freetown Way project highlights the challenges of delivering major road schemes in busy urban areas. While the finished layout intends to improve conditions for vehicles, pedestrians and cyclists, the construction phase can disrupt access and visibility for local businesses.
Such schemes face scrutiny beyond traffic flow; maintaining clear pedestrian routes and easy access to premises is vital during extended works.
The concerns from traders do not confirm a drop in footfall but underline the importance of managing access and communication carefully during the rebuilding process.
Context within UK road investment
This local project comes amid wider discussions about UK road investment, including uncertainty over national project funding such as RIS3. For local authorities and contractors on projects like Freetown Way, the immediate challenge remains maintaining business links while delivering significant infrastructure upgrades.
