Skanska has commenced construction work on a major billion-pound road upgrade for National Highways.

In a significant milestone for local, regional and national transport infrastructure, Transport Minister and MP for South Cambridgeshire, Anthony Browne, took the first ceremonial spadefuls of earth marking the start of main construction at an event held at the heart of the project, the A1 Black Cat roundabout in Bedfordshire.

Skanska is responsible for the design and build of this flagship National Highways scheme, which will lead to the creation of a new 10-mile dual carriageway linking the A1 and A421 Black Cat roundabout in Bedfordshire to the A428 Caxton Gibbet roundabout in Cambridgeshire. Both existing roundabouts will be upgraded into modern, free-flowing junctions with a new junction added at Cambridge Road, improving access to St Neots and its train station.

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The upgrades promise to transform the region by enhancing connectivity, alleviating congestion, and improving road safety. The billion-pound scheme will improve journeys between Milton Keynes, Bedford, and Cambridge, bringing communities together and supporting long-term growth in the region.

Transport Secretary, Mark Harper, said: "I'm delighted we have marked the start of works on the A428 Black Cat to Caxton Gibbet project, a huge investment by the government to grow the economy in the region and reduce congestion for drivers.

"This government is backing drivers by investing in much-needed road projects like this, using savings from HS2 to resurface roads across the country, and introducing a long-term Plan for Drivers to slam the brakes on anti-car measures."

When complete, the upgrade will help drivers save up to an hour-and-a-half on their journeys every week. Around 25,000 vehicles travel on this stretch of road every day. With considerable local housing and job growth expected, this number is likely to grow to 33,000 vehicles by 2040.

Nicola Bell, National Highways Executive Director for Major projects, said: "This project highlights National Highways’ commitment to delivering major projects that make lasting impacts for people, communities, and businesses.

"The start of construction represents a culmination of meticulous planning, collaborative efforts, and a steadfast commitment to enhancing the nation’s infrastructure. We are proud to be part of a project that will lay the foundations for a more resilient and connected future."