A12 Widening Project – Essex’s Biggest Highway Upgrade & What It Means for Contractors

2025-03-01

A12 Widening Project – Essex’s Biggest Highway Upgrade & What It Means for Contractors
The A12 Widening Project is a £1.3 billion investment into Essex’s transport infrastructure, aimed at easing congestion between Chelmsford and Colchester by widening the road to three lanes.
This multi-year project will require hundreds of workers, including civil engineers, road surfacing experts, bridge specialists, and traffic management professionals. With major works set to continue through 2028, securing accommodation for construction teams will be essential.

🏠 Need accommodation near Colchester or Chelmsford? Our serviced apartments offer long-stay discounts for contractors. Book now to ensure your workforce stays comfortably near the A12 corridor.

Key Project Details: A12 Expansion

📍 Location: A12 Junction 19 (Chelmsford) to Junction 25 (Colchester)
🚧 Total Road Upgrade: 15 miles of road expansion
🏗 Key Features:
  • Three lanes in both directions
  • Improved junctions & slip roads
  • Smart motorway technology integration
👷 Workforce Impact: Hundreds of construction jobs
📅 Project Timeline:
  • 2025: Major construction begins
  • 2028: Expected completion
This project is expected to significantly improve transport links in Essex, reducing traffic congestion and boosting local business growth.

Major Contractors & Subcontracting Opportunities

National Highways is overseeing the A12 expansion, with multiple contractors involved in different sections of the project.

🏗 Key Project Partners

  • Main Contractor: To be confirmed (procurement ongoing)
  • Client: National Highways

💼 Subcontractor Opportunities

Contracts will be available for:
Road surfacing & tarmac laying
Bridge & viaduct construction
Drainage & flood mitigation
Traffic management & signage installation
🔗 Want to bid on contracts? Visit National Highways’ Supply Chain Portal.


Where Can Construction Workers Stay?

With multiple work zones along the A12, finding accommodation close to site is critical.
🏠 We offer serviced apartments near Chelmsford, Colchester & Witham, with:
Fully furnished accommodation
Cost-effective long-term rates
Easy access to the A12 construction sites


Find Out More About the A12 Widening Project

📞 Need contractor accommodation near Colchester or Chelmsford? Book today for long-stay corporate rates!