A5 – M1 Link
Project Introduction
In September 2005 the Highways Agency
appointed Scott Wilson as the designer for the proposed
construction of the Dunstable Northern Relief Road linking the A5
with the M1 as part of an Early Contractor Involvement
contract. The contract value of the works was £124M.
Project background
This Scheme involved a Highways Agency
proposal to create a dual two-lane carriageway link between the A5
and the M1 to the north of Dunstable. This would include a 5
km new all purpose dual 2 lane carriageway A5–M1 Link and a new
Junction 11A on the M1. The Scheme passes through
agricultural land of ‘good to moderate quality’. Close to the
Scheme is a landscape designation for the Chiltern Area of
Outstanding Natural Beauty and the Scheme passes through Green
Belt. There are two county wildlife sites, which are locally
important for habitat, as well as several areas of non-designated
woodland, semi-improved grassland, dense scrub, fields and
hedgerows and several pond features. There is one Scheduled
Ancient Monument, one Grade II listed building, 24 known
archaeological sites, as well as several areas of archaeological
potential. A major aquifer underlies a large proportion of
the Scheme. The Scheme crosses two long distance/recreational
routes, as well as a number of footpaths, bridleways and byways
open to all traffic. A number of noise, air quality and
visual receptors exist in the vicinity of the Scheme.
Project Scope
The scope of environmental work undertaken by
Scott Wilson includes input to the optioneering process, full
Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) and Environmental Statement,
preparation of Environmental Design and attendance at Public
Exhibitions. Anticipated future input includes providing Expert
Witness evidence at Public Inquiry, pre-construction surveys,
detailed mitigation design and monitoring during construction and
maintenance periods.
Value Adding Project
Achievements
Throughout Scheme development, emphasis has
been placed on impact avoidance rather than impact
mitigation. However, where impacts are unavoidable,
applicable methods of mitigation have been incorporated into the
Scheme design. The assessments as presented in the Environmental
Statement will define impacts and effects following the
implementation of defined mitigation features/methods. Early
consultation with Statutory Consultees and local interest groups is
to be undertaken to promote awareness of the Scheme, assist
environmental input into the design and aid development of the
mitigation strategy.
