Release date: 5 November 2021

Highways officers and contractors continue to work hard so that the closed section of the A285 at Duncton can be reopened as soon as possible.

They now have an estimate for how long the complex road repair is likely to take. Subject to unforeseen factors that can delay any construction project, such as severe weather, the ambition is for the road to be reopened under two-way traffic light control by mid-December. The full reopening of the road will follow as soon as possible after that.

The section, just south of the Seaford College entrance, has been closed for safety reasons following a slippage of earth over a culvert that spans beneath the carriageway.

Joy Dennis, County Council Cabinet Member for Highways and Transport, said: “We do understand the problems the road closure is creating and apologise again for the inconvenience. Everything possible is being done so the road can be safely reopened as soon as possible.

“Businesses in Duncton, Petworth and the surrounding areas have been able to open as usual throughout and will continue to do so. We hope that now, more than ever, people will try to support the local traders as much as possible.”

We are endeavouring to keep all key stakeholders regularly informed.

Following investigations by specialist teams, a long-lasting solution has been designed and work started last week which will include:

• Gabion baskets being positioned at the foot of the bank to strengthen the overall integrity of the structure

• Repairs to the culverts
• Protecting utilities, including a fresh water mains supply
• Reconstruction of the carriageway
• Installation of new safety barriers on both sides of the carriageway

Signed diversions are in place. Please keep up to date online via: https://one.network and Twitter @WSHighways

• More information can be found on our previous media release