Queen Eleanor Interchange improvement project completed

The Queen Eleanor Interchange in Northampton is set to fully reopen to motorists ahead of the weekend following the completion of major improvement works.

19 March 2026

Delivered by West Northamptonshire Council in partnership with WSP, Kier and National Highways, the comprehensive upgrade will support economic growth, boost capacity, and cut congestion for the thousands of commuters who rely on this key route every day.

The project included full carriageway resurfacing following the widening of the concrete subway, new kerbs and reinstated grass verges – creating smoother, safer and longer‑lasting road surfaces.

New traffic signals, additional lanes and CCTV coverage with MOVA, which is a more effective traffic detection system, have also been introduced to improve traffic flows at the junction, especially during the busiest periods.

Pedestrian routes have been upgraded too, improving safety and accessibility for cyclists and those on foot.

The completion of this project is great news and reflects the Council’s commitment to investing in a modern, reliable network that supports our residents’ current and future transport needs.

We are grateful to motorists for their patience throughout the works, which will provide lasting benefits for safety, efficiency and connectivity.Cllr Richard Butler, Cabinet Member for Highways and Transport

In total, the works involved laying 25,000 square metres of new road surface – the equivalent of more than four full‑sized football pitches, as well as changing the waterproofing on the concrete bridge deck.

The scheme also included major drainage improvements, with 450 metres of new pipework, 50 new gullies and six chambers installed, each five metres deep.

More than 1,700 cubic metres of material were excavated and replaced with over 3,000 cubic metres of freshly seeded topsoil, helping restore the landscape ahead of planting around 40 new semi‑mature trees in the autumn.

All partners involved have worked tirelessly to deliver a scheme that strengthens a critical part of the network. The improvements made here will support growth, reduce delays and improve the day-to-day experience for road users.

We are pleased to see the project completed to a high standard.Allan Rigby, General Manager at Kier Infrastructure

The scheme will be monitored over the next 12 months, including formal and independent road safety audits, to ensure any defects or issues are promptly identified and addressed.