Major work on Lofthouse Interchange now half way to completion

Highways England began work on Lofthouse Interchange, at the junction of the M1 and M62 near Wakefield, last month.

As part of the £3.6m project, workers will replace 20 bridge joints across four bridges, as well as waterproofing the road to protect from damage by rainwater and salt.

The work is expected to take another three weeks to complete.

Highways England project manager, Russell Mclean said: “All the bridge plates and joints have been fitted on the north bridge over the M1 carriageway, this is where we’ve had the most unplanned road closures in the past.

"We’ve finished pouring the concrete, allowing us to start waterproofing and resurfacing, which is the final part of the job.

“Hydro-demolition, where we use high-pressure water jets to remove or demolish concrete without damaging the structure, is being carried out on the east, west and south bridges, where we’re installing new brackets and plates.

"I ask that drivers continue to plan their journeys when travelling in the area, and want to thank them again for their patience.”

Lofthouse Interchange opened in 1970, and now carries around 40,000 vehicles a day.

The roundabout has remained closed to traffic while work is carried out, though the junction's free flow link roads remain open.

Clearly signed diversions are in place.

Further details of the scheme can be found on the Highways England website.

Regular updates will also be provided via Twitter by following @HighwaysYorks and using #Lofthouse.