Approval granted for A47 road project with £200m in funding support
The Thickthorn Junction scheme, a long-awaited project for Norwich, has received the green light from UK ministers, with a funding commitment of over £200m from the Plan for Change scheme.
The future roads minister, Lilian Greenwood, has voiced her support for the project, calling it vital for the city. The scheme is expected to expand job opportunities, better connect communities, and improve links between Norwich and Peterborough.
One of the key features of the upgraded junction is the construction of two new free-flowing slip roads connecting the A47 with the A11. This design change aims to streamline traffic flow, with drivers expected to save 3 to 4 minutes off journeys during morning and afternoon travel peaks. Along the A11, drivers can anticipate saving 2 to 3 minutes during the same travel periods.
The new design also promises to improve safety, with a projected reduction of 26 fatal or serious injury collisions over the next 60 years. This is a significant improvement, as traffic at the junction will be rerouted and flow under new underpasses as part of the scheme.
The Thickthorn Junction scheme is also set to play a crucial role in supporting the Greater Norwich City Deal and is a key route to Norwich University Hospital. The project is part of a wider drive to unblock transport infrastructure development.
In addition to the Thickthorn Junction scheme, four road improvement schemes, totalling £90m, have been announced by the UK Department for Transport.
It's worth noting that the ceremony of the CiTTi Awards, which recognises and celebrates achievements and innovations in road maintenance, is scheduled for 25 November 2025 at De Vere Grand Connaught Rooms in London. This event is separate from the Thickthorn Junction scheme but was mentioned in the same article.
The Thickthorn Junction scheme is expected to create thousands of new homes and jobs, making it a significant step forward in Norwich's development. With its approval, the city is set to experience a much-needed boost in its transport infrastructure.
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