Kingswood Roundabout Improvements to Begin in March

Major improvement works on two key roundabouts in the Kingswood area of Hull are set to begin in March, with construction expected to last approximately six months. The scheme, funded through a £4.8 million allocation from the Department for Transport's Active Travel Fund and Hull City Council's capital programme, will see significant upgrades to the roundabouts at the junction of Kingswood Way and Wawne Road, and at the Kingswood retail park entrance on Althorp Grove.

The improvements will include the creation of segregated cycling lanes around both roundabouts, new signalised pedestrian crossings on all approach arms, and resurfacing of the carriageway and footpaths. The existing roundabout layouts will be modified to reduce vehicle speeds and improve sightlines for cyclists and pedestrians. Additional tree planting and landscaping will be incorporated into the design to improve the appearance of the area, which serves as a gateway to one of Hull's largest residential developments.

Hull City Council's portfolio holder for transportation said the improvements were long overdue, noting that the Kingswood area had grown significantly since the roundabouts were originally designed. "When these roundabouts were first built, Kingswood was a much smaller development," she said. "Since then, thousands of new homes have been built, major retailers have opened, and the area has become one of the busiest parts of the city. These improvements will make the roundabouts safer for everyone, particularly the many families who walk and cycle to Kingswood Academy, the retail park and the local primary schools."

Motorists are advised to expect some disruption during the construction period, with temporary traffic lights and lane closures in operation at various stages of the work. The council has confirmed that access to all businesses and residential properties will be maintained throughout, and that the majority of the most disruptive work will be carried out during off-peak hours where possible. A detailed phasing plan and traffic management arrangements will be published on the council's website before work begins, and regular updates will be provided via the council's social media channels.