New A249 Flyover Slashes Traffic Jams Ahead of Summer
National Highways has opened a brand-new flyover on the A249 as part of the M2 Junction 5 Project, marking a major step forward in tackling one of Kent’s busiest and most congested junctions. The new flyover soars above the Stockbury Roundabout, allowing traffic to flow freely without hold-ups.
Faster, Safer Journeys for Thousands
The flyover’s opening promises to cut delays and improve road safety just in time for the summer getaway rush. Local residents were among the first to test out the smoother route, accompanied by National Highways’ top brass including Executive Director Nicola Bell and Project Manager Daniel Rollinson.
Daniel Rollinson said: “We’re thrilled to celebrate this milestone. The new flyover will deliver quicker and safer journeys for thousands every day. While some work remains and closures are planned this winter, we thank the public for their patience.”
Local Voices Back the Upgrade
Matt Barnes, a local business owner who updates the community on the project via social media, was one of the first drivers on the flyover. He praised the professionalism of the teams behind the scenes.
Matt Barnes said: “National Highways and contractor GRAHAM have done a great job keeping traffic moving and keeping us informed. Being among the first to cross this flyover is a real privilege. It will hugely ease congestion and boost journey times for thousands of drivers.”
Dan Collison, a Kemsley resident, highlighted the flyover’s benefits for families with medical needs.
Dan Collison shared: “My son George, who has Down syndrome, often needs hospital visits. We’ve worried about ambulance access during traffic jams. This flyover doesn’t just help us, but many commuting to Medway, Maidstone, and beyond.”
Next Steps and Project Timeline
The project, approved in June 2021, aims for full completion by 2025. Earlier this year, the Oad Street link and southbound A249 lanes were finished ahead of schedule. The next phase includes completing the South Green link road and installing safety fencing.
This week, overnight closures are planned for road marking works, with a southbound lane on the flyover opening from July 11 and northbound lanes to follow shortly after. More lanes will come online in the weeks ahead, promising smoother rides through this vital transport hub.
