M1 shutdown for J12 bridge

During the closure, the 1,400-tonne 53-year-old bridge will be removed using hydraulic breakers, to make way for the new slip roads at Junction 12.

It is hoped this phase of roadworks will be complete before the onslaught of traffic during the various events this summer.

Highways Agency project manager Lynne Stinson said: “Demolishing the bridge at Junction 12 is a big engineering feat, and the only way that we can remove it safely and quickly is by closing the motorway.

“We have chosen to use the hydro-breakers as it’s a tried and tested method, we have done it with other bridges recently and we know we can have it finished in the 16 hour time period.

“There will be some noise through the night, although not as much as other operations we’ve done, but we’ve informed residents so they are aware.”

The road will be closed from 8pm on June 30 until 12pm on July 1, and motorists are advised to plan ahead, leave plenty of time and use an alternative route if they can.

Central Bedfordshire Council chairman, Councillor Angela Barker, said: “It’s very exciting for the residents who live here, people who work here and people who use this area every day.

“It will be a magnificent construction and it’s fantastic to have. I have used the old bridge many times.

“This is the modern way of managing traffic. Safety and efficiency will both improve, it’s just brilliant.

“I’d like to thank the Highways Agency and everyone that is working on it for doing a great job so far.”