Transport for London (TfL) confirmed today (August 27) that the Gallows Corner works are expected to continue beyond September.
The delay comes just more than a week after TfL issued a public update on the works’ progress stating that the project was “on track”.
The Recorder has put together everything we know at this stage about the delay and everything you should be aware of as we head into September.
Everything we know about the Gallows Corner works delay
How long will the works be delayed for?
TfL has not yet announced a new completion date for the project, but said it is working to confirm this as soon as possible.
Scott Haxton, TfL’s director of capital delivery, said that elements of work to both the flyover and the water mains underneath the roundabout are “now anticipated to continue beyond September”.
This means that the junction will not reopen until at least October – more than three months after the full closure began.
Why has the project been delayed?
The delay is due to “unforeseeable problems” with the conditions of the ground at the Gallows Corner site, according to TfL.
This has caused a delay to the completion of the water mains replacement, which is being carried out by Essex & Suffolk Water alongside the flyover renewal.
The water company previously told this paper that it has had to “revise” part of its project schedule after facing “engineering challenges” – but TfL initially insisted this would not delay the overall works.
What elements of the works are still to be completed?
In its most recent public update published on August 18, TfL said “major engineering works” still lie ahead.
This includes the construction of concrete supports, which will form the starting point for the new flyover, and the installation of the steel structure, column and beams.
After this, concrete panels will then be fitted to form the new flyover road, followed by waterproofing the structure and resurfacing the carriageway.
Will Havering businesses receive any compensation for the disruption?
It is unclear at this stage if Havering will receive any compensation from TfL for the extra disruption caused by the delay.
Cllr Barry Mugglestone previously asked TfL to ensure that any additional costs for the council, residents and businesses in the event of a delay are covered.
READ MORE: Gallows Corner closure: Businesses can apply for rates cut
What have TfL and Essex & Suffolk Water said about the delay?
Scott Haxton, TfL’s director of capital delivery, said: “We’re working closely with Essex & Suffolk Water to complete the renewal of both vital pieces of infrastructure and minimise the impacts of the delay.
“We are very sorry for the disruption caused to local residents and businesses.”
A spokesperson for Essex and Suffolk Water said: “We continue to work very closely with TfL to ensure our programmes remain aligned through the remainder of the works on both infrastructure projects.
“We are sorry for the inconvenience.”
