Better Queensway frequently asked questions (FAQs)
What is the purpose of Better Queensway?
The Better Queensway project aims to improve the Queensway area. This will involve two key elements:
- Improving the safety of the Queensway road and roundabout.
- Building new housing on and around the estate.
How will the works be funded?
The majority of the infrastructure works will be funded by a Housing Infrastructure Fund grant from Homes England.
What are the benefits?
Benefits of this scheme include:
- improved safety and access for pedestrians and cyclists
- removing unused elements of the road such as the stopped-up footbridge
- creating a new space which suits the needs of residents and visitors
How will traffic be managed during the works?
Temporary traffic lights and diversions will be in place to maintain traffic flow. Plans aim to minimise disruption for both north-south and east-west routes.
How will emergency services access the area?
Dedicated routes and contingency plans are in place. Emergency vehicles will be prioritised at all times.
How will businesses and residents be affected?
Access will be maintained where possible. Communication channels will provide updates on changes, and we will review traffic management regularly to minimise disruption. Our Variable Message Signs (VMS) providing diversion information will be updated regularly.
What measures are in place for dust and noise control?
Conditions in the Site Environmental Management Plan (SEMP) will be enforced to minimise dust and noise. Monitoring will take place throughout the works.
Will there be compensation for businesses or residents?
No general compensation is available.
How will pedestrian safety be ensured?
Clear signage, barriers, and regular inspections will be implemented to ensure safe crossing places. Routes will be clearly marked and updated as works progress.
How will people stay informed?
Updates will be posted on the website and there will be regular drop-ins. Static signage and VMS will also provide updated information.
For residents, there is a Queensway Matters forum which meets every two months. This is open for Queensway residents to attend and speak with council officers and the Portfolio holder for Planning and Housing. To register your interest in joining, please email the Beter Queensway team.
A community liaison officer from Taylor Woodrow will be on site two days a week. They will be available to answer any questions relating to the project. To get in touch, please contact Cathryn Wright.
What about parking bay suspensions?
Some bays will be temporarily suspended. Communication will be provided to permit holders, and alternative arrangements will be considered where possible.
What environmental considerations are being made?
Replacement trees will be planted with appropriate species and maturity levels. Environmental conditions will be monitored throughout the project. Whilst planting will be carried out in the planting season, the finished scheme will have significantly more trees than at present.
How will large deliveries (e.g., pipes) be managed?
Deliveries will be scheduled to minimise disruption, and information will be shared in advance to keep residents informed.
How will signage and VMS boards be used?
Seven Vehicle Messaging System (VMS) boards will be deployed to provide real-time updates. Locations will be reviewed to ensure maximum visibility and effectiveness.
How will access to town centre and car parks be maintained?
Clear signage and VMS messages will direct drivers to car parks and alternative routes. Static signs will also be installed for clarity.
Will the road be closed?
Various parts of the road will be closed in phased sections as the works progress however through-traffic will be maintained. Traffic will be managed and directed through the scheme throughout the works. We will work to keep disruption to a minimum.
Will access be maintained to Short Street?
Yes, traffic management plans ensure that access to and from Short Street will be maintained.
Temporary signals around this junction are likely to be required after Christmas, including for a short period and during the footbridge demolition. For this weekend, Short Street will be switched to a right turn with suitable traffic diversions in place.
Access to for the Royal Mail, Range, the Bus Depot and all other businesses and occupiers will be maintained.
When will the housing start?
The current phase of work is only for the roads and public realm. However, we are also working on the housing delivery phases of the project. We expect to have more clarity on how these elements will be progressed in Spring 2026 and all this is being looked at currently to see what may need to change from the original plans to reflect changes in legislation, building regulations, build costs, materials and wider economic factors. We have commissioned Lambert Smith Hampton to work with us on this.
What is attenuation?
As part of the scheme, we will be installing huge water pipes underground which will store surface water and reduce the pressure on the wider network which will also help to reduce the risk of surface water flooding further down towards the seafront. This will also help Anglian Water's network by taking pressure off the ageing combined surface and foul sewers and helping to reduce the risk of sewerage spills into the estuary.
What times will work be carried out?
Construction work will take place Monday to Friday between 7:00 AM and 7:00 PM, and on Saturdays from 7:00 AM to 1:00 PM. There will be no work on Sundays or public holidays.
Over the festive period, there will be no roadworks between 20 December and 5 January. Traffic management will remain in place during this time and will be monitored.
Got any further questions? Visit our contact us page.