The first phase of work began on March 15 as part of the long-awaited upgrade of the ‘temporary’ flyover.
Transport for London (TfL) has warned drivers to expect “traffic queues and long delays” because of lane closures until mid-June – a full closure of Gallows Corner will then be in place from June until September.
The issue of traffic congestion was raised by Harold Wood councillor Darren Wise in a full council meeting yesterday evening (Wednesday March 26).
He asked: “What actions are the council undertaking to alleviate traffic congestion in Harold Wood and Harold Hill when the Gallows Corner roundabout and junction closes for the June to September period?”
Although the public agenda document detailed this question to be directed to cabinet member for environment, Cllr Barry Mugglestone, it was council leader Ray Morgon who answered.
Cllr Ray Morgon described the Gallows Corner works as a huge pain (Image: Havering Council) He said: “We have been lobbying for improvements for many years and we are pleased that there are now plans to strengthen and refurbish the flyover.
“However, let’s not sugar-coat it – it’s going to be a huge pain and cause massive disruption to traffic across the area for a number of months.
“The council is actively engaged with Transport for London and their contractor Costain to manage disruption caused by Gallows Corner.
“TfL has assured the council that a detailed mitigation plan has been developed and modelled although officers are yet to see the final version – it is expected imminently.”
Cllr Morgon said that the plan is expected to involve signal optimisation and sign diversions which will be adapted as works progress.
A bus and emergency vehicle only route will also be in place throughout the construction zone to minimise impacts on public services,
“As things stand, there are no planned works in this period around Harold Wood and Harold Hill but there is always the risk of emergency works taking place which is beyond our control.
“When completed, we hope this investment will see improved journey times for all, however in the meantime we will continue to lobby for further improvements to the roundabout below as currently it is very difficult to navigate and for many drivers it feels unsafe.”
In a supplementary question, Cllr Wise asked whether Cllr Morgon agreed that the traffic problems will “severely impact” and be “disadvantageous” to Harold Wood residents travelling to seek “alternative library provision”.
Harold Wood Library is one of three libraries set to close by the end of the month.
Cllr Morgon responded: “Obviously there is going to be an impact – we absolutely know that but we are taking all possible steps with TfL to minimise the impact.
“The fact is that during the period between June and August when the area will be closed off apart from buses and emergency vehicles, there is going to be an impact but Harold Hill Library is some distance away and my view would be that most residents using that library are probably not coming via Gallows Corner.”
