Essential work to improve drainage at the exit of Plymouth station and onto Saltash Road has had to be extended due to some unexpected issues.
South West Highways are carrying out the project to increase capacity of the sewage system as part of the station’s long term regeneration plan.
The first phase of work got underway in August and there have been temporary lane closures on the Alma Road, Stuart Road and Central Park approaches to Pennycomequick Roundabout, as well as the roundabout itself and the inbound side of Pennycomequick Hill (Saltash Road).
Most of these closures were due to be lifted today but a number of unforeseen issues have arisen, including the discovery of a reinforced concrete slab within the drainage line.
Part of the sewer in the work area is several metres deeper than records had suggested and an unexpected utility connection has also been uncovered.
As a result, the lane closures have had to be provisionally extended to Friday 9 December to allow for further investigations to take place and for scheme redesigns to be agreed and implemented.
The lane closures are required as the works involve excavation trenches but are working with South West Highways to minimise disruption wherever we can.
Works will continue on the second phase of the scheme, which got underway on Monday and involves the closure of the bus lane and cycle lane from the railway bridge to the station exit.
The drainage works are taking place as part of the transformation of the area around the station, which will include a new medical faculty for the next generation of medical professionals and the creation of Brunel Plaza, with shops, offices, cafes and a major public space.