Question to the Department for Transport:

To ask His Majesty's Government what was the original estimate for the cost of the current repair works to the Wentbridge Viaduct on the A1; and what they expect the final cost to be.

The original estimate for the Wentbridge Viaduct was £5,403,583, however, at present the expected cost for the works is £16,079,669. The change in costs is due to significant change of scope as additional essential repairs were identified, including but not limited to reconstruction of both deck ends, extensive renewal of drainage throughout the structure, replacement of the Vehicle Restraint System foundation plinths, repairs to the underslung hanger walkway, repairs to deck haunches and concrete repairs to the abutments, all of which were not known nor could have been identified until the existing bridge deck was exposed.

National Highways began the enabling works and upgrading Jacksons Lane on 24 February 2023 but the main works on the carriageway commenced on 11 April 2023 with an expected completion date of September 2023. The current expected completion at Wentbridge Viaduct is Spring 2025. This is in part due to the decision to bring forward the Wentedge road bridge works originally planned to be undertaken in 2026 so that they can be completed at the same time due to the proximity of the two structures, and this will minimise long term disruption while ensuring that both works are completed efficiently. Works to both structures is now expected to be completed by August 2025.