Portsmouth's road maintenance to resume under new social distancing measures
PORTSMOUTH City Council has announced the phased return of maintenance work on the city’s roads.
While some emergency repairs have continued, much of the city’s maintenance programme has been temporarily suspended during lockdown.
As lockdown begins to ease, the council have announced a revised programme which will begin on June 1 with resurfacing work on Elm Grove, Kings Road and Victoria Road North.
The work has been brought forward to take advantage of the lower volume of traffic currently being experienced.
The council have said that all residents likely to be affected will receive a leaflet with further information in advance of the work starting.
Cllr Lynne Stagg, cabinet member for transport and transportation, said: ‘The revised programme of work takes into consideration the changes in residents’ travel habits and will initially focus on activities which can be done safely while observing social distancing where possible.
‘It is important we start a safe phased return to work on our road networks to make sure our roads and footways are maintained and kept in a safe condition for everyone using them.’
Road maintenance across the city is generally carried out by Colas who from May 26 will also resume the cutting of grass and overgrown shrubs.
Workers will be following government guidance to return to work safely and where possible there will be a 2m perimeter from workers with signs, barriers and a distancing marshal to help keep the team and public safe.
Colas business manager, Ray Muscat, said: ‘Our teams carry out essential work to maintain our city’s roads and we ask that you support us by socially distancing and following our signage to help reduce the possible spread of the coronavirus.’
Information on Portsmouth's roadworks and closures can be found here.