The £100M improvement scheme at the M2 junction 5 in Kent has reached completion, promising significant upgrades to one of the country’s busiest and historically dangerous intersections.
The project was carried out by Graham on behalf of National Highways and was initiated in June 2021 under Road Investment Strategy (RIS 2). It aims to improve connectivity, safety and overall traffic flow.
Situated at the crucial junction of the M2 and A249, the upgrade is expected to enhance travel between the Isle of Sheppey, Maidstone and the M20 motorway – one of the main routes linking Dover to London and Sheerness.
Key features of the renovation include the newly constructed Stockbury flyover, which spans roughly 1.5km. This bridge is designed to alleviate congestion by removing the need for vehicles to navigate the heavily trafficked Stockbury roundabout. Built with 1,500 customised Reinforced Earth RECO panels, the flyover aesthetically integrates with the surrounding landscape, incorporating locally sourced flint and cobble to reflect the Kent Downs Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.
Two substantial reinforced concrete bridges that support the flyover were installed using a 450t mobile crane, with operations carried out during August and October 2023, all without disrupting the flow of traffic.
In addition to the flyover, the improvements include the addition of two new slip roads that provide motorists direct access from the A249 to the M2, effectively bypassing the Stockbury roundabout and further reducing congestion.
A redesigned gyratory system for the existing roundabout is also part of the upgrade, and it now features the removal of previous traffic lights, along with a new, safer link road connecting Maidstone Road and Oad Street.
Graham engaged actively with the local community throughout the project. Initiatives included support for local facilities, volunteer days and charitable contributions to organisations such as Demelza Hospice, Maidstone Homeless Care and Dandelion Time. This community-focused approach earned the project top marks from the Considerate Constructors Scheme, reflecting a strong commitment to social value and environmental responsibility.
Graham contracts director Dave Brown said: “It is with great pride that we announce the successful completion of the M2 Junction 5 Improvements Scheme, which is a testament to the hard work, collaboration, and commitment of the entire team. We are proud to deliver a project that not only improves safety and connectivity for motorists, but leaves a lasting positive impact on the community.
“I’d like to thank everyone involved for their efforts and the local residents for their support throughout this journey.”
National Highways project manager Jilwan Rahimi said: “We are incredibly proud to have completed a project of this scale and be leaving behind a positive legacy for the local community.
“We are grateful for everyone’s patience and understanding while carrying out this work, which will provide smoother and safer journeys for thousands of road users every day.”
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