Completion of major works on busy Northampton roundabout delayed until spring 2026
Completion of major road works on a busy Northampton roundabout has been delayed until spring 2026, West Northamptonshire Council (WNC) has announced.
Works on the Queen Eleanor roundabout started in March this year, after it was deemed “not fit for purpose”. The works include widening the carriageway, updating traffic signals, resurfacing and more. The works have also brought with it several lane closures and full closures since March.
The project was due to be completed by December this year, however WNC is now expecting the scheme to complete in spring 2026. The delays are due to new risks which have been identified and require additional work to extend the subway. The council says this is a “key element of the project”.
The issues uncovered include previously uncharted utility services and unexpected areas of hard sandstone bedrock.
Councillor Richard Butler, Cabinet Member for Highways and Transport at West Northamptonshire Council, said: “While we appreciate this extension may be frustrating for road users, it’s essential that we take the time to deliver these improvements properly and safely.
“The challenges uncovered during construction are not uncommon in projects of this scale, and we’re working hard to resolve them efficiently.
“Once complete, this scheme will bring lasting benefits to the local road network, improving safety and reducing congestion for years to come.”
The project, delivered in partnership with National Highways, aims to increase capacity, improve traffic flow and reduce congestion.
Updated work schedule
- Lane closures on the north bridge, Newport Pagnell Road, London Road, and Mere Way will continue until December 2025
- Subject to progress throughout November and December, the lane closure on Mere Way (toward London Road) will remain in place through the Christmas shutdown until work resumes in January 2026
Planned closures
Planned night closures (8pm to 6am)
- November 24 to December 7, 2025 (14 nights): East side (Hardingstone Lane/Newport Pagnell Road)
- December 8 to December 19, 2025 (12 nights): West side (Mere Way/London Road)
Diversion routes will be clearly signposted, with advance warning signs on the A45.
“All work is weather-dependent, and once complete the upgraded interchange will deliver significant benefits for all road users, including enhanced safety for drivers and pedestrians, increased lane capacity, and a fully reconstructed carriageway built to modern standards,” a WNC spokesman added.