Universal has requested an extension to the current closure until 28 November to finish the major earthmoving between the Lake Zone and Core Zone before poorer weather and shorter days make the work more difficult. Council officers consider the extension necessary.
The closure was needed to prevent traffic queuing back onto the Marston Vale railway line while trucks use the haul-road crossing.
Manor Road is then expected to reopen to through traffic between December 2026 and February 2027, when earthmoving is anticipated to reduce over winter. Temporary traffic lights may still be needed during that period.
A further closure could follow from March 2027 to divert existing underground services. That work hasn’t been confirmed yet, as the locations of all the services still need to be established.
These are the current expectations, rather than guaranteed reopening and closure dates.
The council says it has received no complaints about the recent Manor Road closure. However, I’ve personally witnessed people getting off trains at Kempston Hardwick and finding they can’t continue their journey without a massive detour.
No complaints received doesn’t mean nobody has been affected. Hopefully, access for those arriving on foot will be considered when planning further closures.
Have you had to change your journey because of the closure?
