Multi-million pound Parkway upgrade bringing big benefits

Adding a third lane both ways, plus new street lighting, carriageway surfaces, signals, signs and drainage added up to RMBC’s biggest ever capital project.

An initial target completion of spring this year slipped to winter, but the improvements are already appreciated by drivers, the council says.

Cllr Dominic Beck cabinet member for transport and environment, called it a “tremendous” success at Monday’s (19) cabinet meeting.

At a reopening event last week, he said: “We’ve already had good feedback from residents who use this busy route every day, and this significant investment in the roads network will continue to make a difference for travellers into and out of the borough.

“That in turn helps to support businesses and jobs in the community.

“Alongside improving the experience of drivers and passengers, by reducing the amount of time traffic is standing, we can also help to address air quality concerns in the area, too.”

Capacity on the Parkway is now markedly increased — improving journey reliability and reducing travel time.

In addition, the new 50mph speed limit is aimed at improving road safety and cutting carbon emissions.

The growing Advanced Manufacturing Park and Sheffield Business Park are also benefitting from the project, while a motorway service station is planned for the M1 junction 33 roundabout.

The government-funded improvements were carried out in partnership with infrastructure group Balfour Beatty.

Area director Stephen Semple said: “Testament to the dedication and hard work of our team over the last 18 months, we are pleased that the A630 Rotherham Gateway scheme has now fully reopened to traffic.

“We hope that these essential upgrade works will provide a lasting legacy for South Yorkshire and beyond, improving lives through increased connectivity and reduced journey times.”

Cllr Denise Lelliott, RMBC cabinet member for jobs and the local economy, said: “Completion of these works will make a big difference to thousands of commuters’ journeys every day as well as supporting economic and housing growth in the region.”