Building the A417 Missing Link Episode 2 Moving 15 million cubic metres of earth

How do you build a road? - Episode 2: Moving 1.5 million cubic metres of earth with Construction Manager Mark Sabbato of main Tier 1 contractor Kier Transportation.

In our latest video, Mark explains to Peter Haddock just what is involved in constructing the £460m National Highways A417 ‘Missing Link’ project offline, the huge earthmoving challenge with Walters, archaeology, ecology and much more…..

Mark: "This project is an ‘Earthmovers Dream’. We have to cut and fill neighbouring sections of the site to reduce the total road gradient from 10% to 8%, a process that will dramatically improve traffic flows.

"To do this, we will undertake a 16-metre cut at the bottom of the hill and just over a 16-metre fill in Shab Valley, which will house the main interchange link from the A417 to the A436 towards Oxford and the B4070 towards Birdlip Village.”

Talking about its digital-first approach to planning the project, Mark added: “There has been a lot of work carried out on this digitally-led project, from 3D modelling and rehearsals to the use of sophisticated ground penetrating radar solutions.

"And as we move forward, we will use the latest fuel-efficient equipment and 3D machine control onsite throughout the earthworks and roadbuilding programme. This will combine with the use of the latest AI-enabled safety solutions to reduce the people plant interface."

Stay tuned to our channel as Mark and Peter are back for Episode 3 at the Shab Valley Interchange, a key part of the project.