To Avoid Disruption, People Need Accurate Project Information

Major highways schemes, particularly ones that involve the replacement of significant assets such as overbridges bring the likelihood of severe disruption and long diversions for motorists. Planning how this disruption can be minimised is an increasingly important aspect of these projects.

First and foremost, people need accurate information and advice so they can plan their lives and journeys appropriately. The communication process needs to be designed carefully so that people have reliable information well ahead of time with reminders closer to specific events that are likely to cause the most disruption.

An effective short, medium and long term communication plan relies on an accurate early picture of how the project will be carried out. The earlier a contractor with knowledge of the project process is engaged, the easier it is to identify the likely timing, duration and severity of closures.

A detailed understanding of the project phases allows other partners and stakeholders to be engaged in planning how to mitigate any disruption. This can be done on the basis of a clear picture of when and how the work will take place.

Multi-channel communications can then be planned with the confidence that what people are being told is accurate. Diversions and access routes can also be identified ahead of time and communicated to communities and other road users.

Make Consultation Meaningful

District and parish councils, community groups and other authorities have a wealth of local knowledge that can inform the decision-making process for diversions and closure times. This has the dual benefit of reducing the severity of any disruptions and of providing meaningful engagement for local residents. They are better able to understand why disruption needs to happen and how the project will benefit them in the longer term.

The recent Romsey Bridge replacement across the M27 provides an excellent example of this approach in action. The Local Resilience Forum (LRF) combined decision makers from local councils, emergency services, ports and emergency planners. Their knowledge informed the diversion route planning.

Ahead of the first closure Over 550 local people attended information events. 3D virtual ‘walk through’ technology improved the understanding of the benefits, phasing and traffic management. 16,000 targeted letters and leaflets reinforced these messages.

Variable Message Signs (VMS) on motorways and the 60-mile diversion route forewarned the public and allowed them to make alternative plans. This was supported by media messaging on local and regional TV and Radio stations.

All of this was possible because of the clarity over delivery brought by early engagement with the Osborne project team.

Find out more about our infrastructure projects here.