The transformation of Havering’s most critical transport artery has reached a pivotal moment. This week, Council Leader Ray Morgon and Cabinet Member for Environment Barry Mugglestone conducted a site visit to inspect the newly installed flyover at Gallows Corner.

This visit marks the completion of the first major milestone for Essex and Suffolk Water (ESW), signaling that the wider project remains on track according to the current schedule.

Progress on the Ground

During the inspection, Councillors were shown the technical scale of the year-long engineering project, including:

• A newly finalized flyover deck.

• Upgraded modern crash barriers.

• Extensive structural renewals to the original 1970s frame to ensure its longevity.

While the visible progress is a welcome sight, the full reopening of the junction—scheduled for the end of April 2026—is still dependent on several critical factors. Over the coming weeks, teams will focus on final road layout works, utility connections, and essential water testing.

Holding Partners to Account

Despite the visible success of the flyover installation, Havering Council remains firm in its stance that residents and businesses deserve a swift and final resolution to the ongoing disruption.

“It’s encouraging to see real, visible progress, but we know our community is still living with chaos, congestion, and longer journeys,” said Councillor Ray Morgon. “This project is only happening because of the sustained pressure we have applied. We will continue to hold TfL and ESW to account to ensure they hit every remaining milestone without further delay.”

The Leader also emphasized the Council’s ongoing fight for fair compensation for local businesses and residents who have been severely impacted by the works, alongside funding to repair damage on local diversion routes.

Securing Havering’s Future

Councillor Barry Mugglestone highlighted the “unimaginable” alternative if this project hadn’t moved forward. Without these essential works, TfL had planned to remove the flyover entirely in 2027 without a replacement—a move that would have caused permanent gridlock for the A12 and A127.

Key wins for the Council include:

• Road Repair Funding: TfL has now agreed to provide compensation for increased damage to Havering’s wider road network caused by diverted traffic.

• Long-term Stability: The modernised structure is designed to serve motorists, pedestrians, and cyclists for decades to come.

What’s Next?

The Council will continue to monitor the final stages of work closely. We expect the junction to fully reopen once TfL confirms that all safety and utility stages have been successfully completed.

Stay tuned to our news feed for further updates as we approach the April 2026 completion date.