First phase of Woolwell-The George scheme nears completion as new junction opens today

The first phase of the Woolwell to The George transport scheme is close to finishing, with final testing on the new Tavistock Road and Woolwell Crescent junction beginning today (Monday 17 November).

From today, signal testing will take place at the new junction, meaning it will be fully opened for the first time.

This will allow drivers coming from Woolwell to turn right onto Tavistock Road and head north for the first time without needing to use Woolwell Roundabout.

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The council says the junction will be closely monitored during the testing period, and once this is complete, cones and other traffic management will start to be removed. 

Remaining surfacing and road-marking work will depend on the weather, but the aim is to lift all traffic management by the end of next week (week ending 23 November).

ABOVE: Diagram of how the new road layout will look (Credit: PCC)

When this happens, the temporary ban on turning right at Woolwell Roundabout into Woolwell Road will also end. 

Drivers heading into Woolwell will no longer need to divert to Belliver (Plessey) Roundabout. 

The enforcement camera at the roundabout will be switched off, and the exit from Woolwell Road will return to a standard give-way layout.

Some work will continue on site, including landscaping at Woolwell Crescent and the slope next to Tesco, along with the installation of deer fencing to protect new planting. 

A temporary 30mph speed limit will remain in place, and focus is now shifting to Phase Two of the project. 

This includes widening Tavistock Road to create a dual carriageway towards the George Junction, replacing Woolwell Roundabout with a signalised junction, and delivering major improvements for pedestrians and cyclists.

Phase Two is expected to begin in January 2026, giving drivers a break from major traffic management over Christmas and New Year.

Ahead of the main works, crews will remove the site compound at Clock House, dig trial holes to check underground services, and carry out early utility diversions. 

These activities may need small areas of traffic management, but the council says they are not expected to cause disruption.

Councillor John Stephens, Cabinet Member for Strategic Planning and Transport, said the opening of the new junction marks “a significant milestone” for the project. 

He warned that signal timings may need adjusting as the new layout settles in and thanked drivers for their patience.

Public information events about Phase Two will be held in January 2026, with dates to be confirmed next month (December 2025).