The bypass is now virtually complete with the majority of it now surfaced and white lined ready for opening at the end of March, as can be seen in the adjacent picture.

The heavy snow in early February (see picture) stopped surfacing works for two weeks, though the road will still open by the end of March

When traffic was diverted onto the new bridge last October this allowed the last of the earth to be removed from the cutting. The adjacent picture shows the completed Thurlaston Lane bridge with the new bypass carriageway running underneath it. The shared use cycle/footway link from Thurlaston Lane down to the bypass can also be seen.

As can be seen in the adjacent picture a 3 metre wide shared use cycle/footway runs the length of the bypass. In addition, links to existing footpaths are being provided to ensure easy access by pedestrians and cyclists.

The landscaping at the southern bypass roundabout, which was opened to the public last September has now been completed. As can be seen in the adjacent picture the landscaping includes trees and shrubs planted on the roundabout and alongside the road.

To help badgers and other animals such as newts cross the bypass three badger tunnels have been built under the carriageway. (See adjacent picture.)

In preparation for the bypass opening work is being carried out at the Station Road traffic signal junction which provides crossing facilities for cycles and pedestrians. (See adjacent picture)