Roadworks in Nottingham: A Comprehensive Overview of Ongoing Projects and Their Impact
Nottingham, like many major cities, is no stranger to roadworks. However, what sets the city apart is the significant impact that closures on key arterial roads can have on traffic flow, local businesses, and daily commutes. From resurfacing projects to new junctions, a number of ongoing works are affecting the city and its surrounding areas.
North Nottingham and Nottinghamshire
One of the most notable projects currently underway is the A610 Nuthall Road resurfacing works. This project is expected to last around two months and will be carried out in seven phases. Southbound and northbound carriageways will be closed at different points during working hours. The first three phases, which are currently ongoing, focus on the southbound carriageway before moving to the northbound from the end of July until August 20.
The partial closure of Nuthall Road is likely to cause problems for those trying to access the M1 at junction 26 or those coming from the M1 to the city. The resurfacing, maintenance, water, and gas works have all been affecting businesses in the area. Some residents and business owners have expressed their concerns about the disruption caused by the two-month-long road works.
Ranbir Singh, an off-licence owner on Nuthall Road, has voiced his worries about the impact on his business. He mentioned that if the road is closed, customers may choose to go elsewhere, potentially leading to a loss of revenue. Similarly, Luokman Jamal Mahmood, who runs LBM Carwash, explained that the closure has severely affected his business. He noted that the lack of traffic has made it difficult to cover his wages and even his water bill.
In addition to the A610 works, Western Boulevard, part of Nottingham’s ring road, will also undergo resurfacing works in phase seven, starting on August 15 until August 26. There will be a lane closure near Newlyn Drive in Aspley. Elsewhere, Nottingham Road in Arnold has been closed between Charles Street and the Ernehale Wetherspoon pub, causing delays for commuters trying to access Arnold from the A60 Mansfield Road.
Lane Closures and Pipeline Works
Commuters are also experiencing delays due to lane closures by Severn Trent on the Leapool Roundabout, also known as the Redhill Roundabout. This roundabout links the A614 Ollerton Road to the A60 Mansfield Road, north of Arnold, and is a key route in and out of Nottingham. Severn Trent is building a 16km pipeline linking the Derwent Valley Aqueduct to the Strelley Reservoir and Redhill Reservoir. Work on this £32m project started in January 2024, and the final stage involves lane closures on the Leapool Roundabout. These closures are expected to last until August 1, with delays likely for motorists.
A52 Roadworks
The year-long A52 Derby Road resurfacing works, which began in mid-May, are set to run until 2026. This project has had a significant impact on traffic flow and congestion levels on the west side of the city. The stretch of road between Priory Island and QMC roundabout is a vital route for accessing the M1, Derby, and the west side of the county. The westbound carriageway, heading out of the city towards Wollaton, has been closed for four months, followed by a four-month closure for the eastbound carriageway.
A one-way system has been set up, with the current diversion via University Boulevard creating bumper-to-bumper traffic at rush hour. Bus operators have also had to make significant changes to their routes. The “major upgrade” is being carried out by National Highways and is due to be completed in Spring 2026. The scheme includes resurfacing the carriageway, which is nearing the end of its working life, and the construction of a combined cycleway and footway on the eastbound side of the A52 Derby Road.
City Centre and Key Routes
Significant changes have been made to the Maid Marian Way roundabout in the city centre. Originally expected to finish in the spring, the works have been extended to the summer. Nottingham City Council has yet to confirm an exact finish date. The final part of the works, which have transformed the roundabout into a new T-junction controlled by traffic lights, is set to take place soon. Overnight closures will be in place from July 21, from 10pm to 6am, for 17 nights.
Nottingham City Council officials have stated that the “end is in sight” and thanked drivers and motorists for their continued patience. Some residents and bus operators have previously complained about avoiding this area due to high traffic levels. Meanwhile, the Lady Bay Bridge, a key crossing over the River Trent, has been partially closed to pedestrians and motorists from July to October. The bridge has been closed to traffic overnight from Monday, July 7, with pedestrian footways closed during specific hours.
Nottinghamshire County Council has decided to close the bridge to paint it for the first time in 15 years. A diversion has been put in place, with motorists and pedestrians advised to use Radcliffe Road, London Road, County Road, and Meadow Lane. For the footpath closure, people can use Radcliffe Road, London Road, and Meadow Lane.
