M11: New junction 7a between Harlow and Bishop's Stortford set to open in June

The new junction on the M11 motorway between Harlow and Bishop's Stortford will open in June, Essex Highways has announced.

One of the largest infrastructure projects in Essex for a number of years, the scheme will see the opening of junction 7a, the widening of the B183 Gilden Way/Sheering Road and installation of a new link road to connect the two.

The project, funded by Essex County Council and National Highways, is in its final elements of work, including footpaths, kerbs, CCTV, road markings and landscaping. A precise date has yet to be confirmed.

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Cllr Lesley Wagland, Essex County Council’s cabinet member for economic renewal, infrastructure and planning, said: “I am very pleased that despite the challenges faced over the last two years, the scheme remains on schedule, with the junction to open to traffic as soon as it is safe to do so.

“The new junction is critical for Harlow and the wider area. Ultimately it will help create a new east-west route through the town, helping reduce congestion, offering new public transport opportunities and further unlocking the economic potential of the area by providing more journey time reliability for businesses and improving access onto the motorway.

“This is one of a number of strategic infrastructure projects that Essex County Council is currently working on as we strive to futureproof our infrastructure and help accommodate the pressures that come with a growing population.”