Council re-think as Planning A164 improvements top over £100 million, so a less ambitious scheme has been put forward.

 

Planning approval for the A164 dual carriageway was obtained in July 2020, with the Compulsory Purchase Order and Side Roads Order confirmed in October 2021.  At this point the scheme cost was estimated at £61.8m, including a DfT contribution of £40.8m

 

The construction industry has experienced significant change and disruption since the scheme cost was last revised. The overriding factor that has resulted in increased estimates is construction inflation, with current rates at between 5-9%.  As a result of these challenges, the current estimated outturn cost of constructing the full scheme is now over £100m. The DfT has made it clear that scheme promoters bear the risk of any cost increases following OBC approval and has suggested that the Council needs to explore options to make the scheme more affordable.

 

          The project team developed several revised scheme options that reduce the scheme scope and associated cost whilst still meeting the original scheme objectives and generating high value for money. After discussions with the DfT, the Council’s Cabinet and Corporate Management Team, a decision has been made to progress with an alternative scheme option. This includes the removal of dual carriageway section between Skidby Roundabout and Castle Hill roundabout, retaining dual section between Beverley and Skidby Roundabout, with an estimated cost of £86.9m (see image)

 

This proposed new option continues to deliver most of the scheme benefits expected by the public, stakeholders and DfT, including all the improvements to the Jocks Lodge junction. It removes the construction challenges and associated high cost of constructing the dual carriageway section between Skidby and Castle Hill, including those relating to widening the existing bridge over Eppleworth Road. The proposed improvements to adjacent pedestrian and cycle routes are retained, as is the proposal to relocate local bus stops in to Skidby village away from the main carriageway and nearer to demand. In summary, the new option continues to meet the original scheme objectives whilst offering high value for money at a cost the Council can afford.

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