The project
Following the successful completion of the Catthorpe Viaduct replacement in 2012, Skanska was awarded the contract for the M1 Junction 19 improvement scheme.
The work completely redesigned and rebuilt the intersection of the M1, M6 and A14.
Over 142,000 vehicles pass through the junction each day. This meant the schedule needed to be carefully planned to minimise safety risks and disruption – for road users, local people and site-based personnel.
Free-flowing links
The improved junction provides the following direct free-flow links:
- A14 to M1 northbound
- M1 southbound to A14
- M6 to A14 in both directions
- M6 to M1 southbound
- M1 northbound to M6
Improved safety
The scheme objective was to improve safety for the travelling public and make journeys more reliable on the highways network.
Digital
Building information modelling was used on this complex, long-term infrastructure project.
Visualisation
An animation of the 22 construction phases was developed and used to validate and improve the planning of the proposed project schedule. This visualisation incorporated all site logistics, including the 22 traffic diversions where the flow of traffic had to be significantly re-routed.
Efficient delivery
Every aspect of the project – from planning to community engagement – was managed more efficiently and effectively. This was achieved through digital modelling using data about the construction schedule, cost, environment, safety and much more. It’s a way of working that helps ensure large, complex projects are delivered on time, on budget and with minimum risk.
Social and environmental benefits
The project delivered the following benefits:
- the village of Swinford and Catthorpe connected by a local road for the first time in 20 years
- over 100 wildlife habitats were created
- areas equivalent to 35 football pitches were landscaped and planted
- over one million days of travelling time saved for motorists every year.
