Due to the high temperatures currently being experienced works have had to be delayed. When the surface temperature of an A road goes above 350C and the surface temperature of an unclassified rural road goes above 400C the binder can become excessively fluid and remain mobile for too long. This can lead to several issues, including:
- Reduced aggregate retention, with chippings becoming displaced under traffic.
- Increased risk of bleeding or flushing, where excess binder rises to the surface, creating a smooth and potentially slippery finish.
- Chippings being embedded too deeply into the softened binder, reducing the surface texture and skid resistance.
- Greater likelihood of vehicles picking up binder on their tyres, resulting in tracking onto adjacent roads and generating complaints from the public.
- Premature failure of the treatment, ultimately requiring remedial works and increasing whole-life costs.
The current spell of exceptionally hot weather has caused significant disruption to surface dressing programme.
Cllr emails and resident letters were previously issued to all those affected by the upcoming works. These letters did not commit to exact dates but provided a timeframe (period of days) when to expect potential disruption and advised residents to ensure they checked the AWN boards on site for the most up to date information (including exact closure dates closer to the time). AWN boards were to be erected 5 days prior to any closure, to give residents and road users information, and when weather could be predicted more accurately.
Works have been rescheduled for 20/07/2026 08:00 – 18:00 under a full road closure and AWN boards will be updated on site. Resident access will be possible but there may be a short delay until safe to do so. Gatemen will be available on site to advise. Sweeping and lining will be completed as mobile works under local traffic management at night to reduce disruption to residents between 27/07/2026 and 04/08/2026.
Please do not hesitate to contact me if you require any further details relating to this project.
Thank you,
Engineering Services
Bedford Borough Council
4th Floor, Borough Hall, Cauldwell Street, Bedford, MK42 9AP
Website: www.bedford.gov.uk
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