Roadworks on A61 near Chesterfield after noise complaints

The dual-carriageway, from Bowshaw roundabout to Whittington Moor roundabout, was surface dressed in 2019 – but residents who live nearby complained the road was noisier after the work had taken place.

Tests last November found noise levels at the side of the A61 were higher than expected from this type of road surface.

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However, further work this spring had to be cancelled due to the coronavirus pandemic.

A specialist company was due to take readings at the homes of those affected.

Derbyshire County Council now says a stretch just under a mile long will be resurfaced later this year.

The work will coincide with maintenance work needed to the viaduct further down the A61 and will take place overnight.

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Derbyshire County Council’s cabinet member for highways, transport and infrastructure, Councillor Simon Spencer, said: “We are aware that there is an issue with higher noise levels than we would expect for a number of residents whose homes back onto the A61 in Dronfield.

“Although we do still need to do some further detailed noise investigations, we will resurface just under a mile to help with the issues residents are reporting. The work will likely be completed before the end of October.

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“We’d like to apologise to those who have been affected, but let them know that we are doing all we can to fix the problem.”

North East Derbyshire MP Lee Rowley said: “Thanks to all residents who have been in touch with us to raise the noise issues. We’re very grateful to Derbyshire County Council for listening and working with us to find a solution.”

Councillor Alex Dale, county councillor for Dronfield, added: “It’s taken quite a lot of discussions with Highways on behalf of local residents over the past few months but I’m really pleased they have listened and have come up with a solution.

“We’ll keep residents informed of any further details moving forward.”

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