Major West Sussex road to close for ten days for broadband upgrade
A busy road near Worthing is set to close next month, as broadband infrastructure works are carried out in the area.
As confirmed by road signs, A280 Long Furlong in Clapham will be closed to through traffic for ‘approximately ten days’ from Monday, April 13.
The company responsible says drivers and residents will be ‘impacted as little as possible’.
CityFibre explained the road closure is necessary, whilst the company is trialling a new traffic management technology to support the delivery of vital Project Gigabit works.
The new traffic management system from BUKO Digital and will enable smart ‘real time’ diversions across SatNavs, Google Maps and ‘reduce congestion on adjacent routes’.
Adrian Smith, partnership manager for CityFibre, said: “We’re excited to be trialling this impressive technology to benefit road users around the Worthing area.
"Improved communications with drivers will help us to deliver these essential works quickly and safely whilst also ensuring that drivers and residents are impacted as little as possible. It’s a win-win.”
The closure supports CityFibre’s work to deliver full fibre broadband to hard-to-reach homes and businesses as part of the UK Government’s Project Gigabit programme. Access will still be maintained for residents and businesses within the closure area, but all through-traffic must follow the signed diversion routes.
The closure stretches between the Patching and Findon roundabouts.
A spokesperson for West Sussex County Council said: “Long Furlong is a road heavily used by many drivers in Worthing, so we understand the importance of clear communication and efficient works.
"The trial with BUKO Digital should help improve the experience for those affected during the works.”
Motorists are advised to plan ahead and consider alternative routes to avoid delays while the works are carried out.