A249 Bearsted Road improvement scheme
The proposed scheme aims to accommodate increased traffic volume by signalising the A249 Bearsted Road roundabout and enlarging the New Cut Road roundabout, whilst widening between the two. Additional smart technology will help ease congestion and improve traffic flow.
Why we're making changes
Traffic capacity modelling carried out indicates that there is too much traffic on the current highway, with this forecast to worsen towards the end of the horizon assessment year (2031), as substantial commercial development associated with the Kent Medical Campus and significant housing sites to the south of Maidstone are delivered.
The scheme objectives are to:
- alleviate congestion not only in the short-term but considering the anticipated increase in the traffic over the coming years
- improve journey time reliability in the morning and afternoon peak periods
- reduce noise and air pollution by decreasing congestion and limiting stationary traffic.
What will change
The proposed scheme aims to increase junction capacity by signalising the A249 Bearsted Road roundabout and enlarging the New Cut Road roundabout.
The scheme will:
- upgrade 2 junctions on the A249 Bearsted Road and New Cut Road
- widen the road between the 2 junctions
- accommodate increased traffic volumes
- support local development
- ease congestion
- improve traffic flow and journey time reliability.
Timescales
The project was paused whilst we selected a new contractor for the construction. All dates below are subject to change.
- Outline design: completed
- Detailed design: completed
- Enabling works: completed
- Project begins: 18 August 2025
- Project completion: autumn 2026.
Scheme costs
The scheme is funded through developer contributions and money from the National Productivity Investment Fund (NPIF).
Planning updates
Planning permission has been granted for the drainage outfall within the crematorium. Read the report on Maidstone Borough Council's website.
Planning permission has been granted for the HGV access and loading/unloading area within Newnham Court Shopping Village. Read the planning application for more information.
Newsletters
Media releases
6 August 2025 - Date set for the A249 Bearsted Road improvement scheme works
Contact
For day-to-day queries during construction, the main point of contact will be the team on site:
- Phone
- 07976 367359
Email bearstedroad.majorproject@kent.gov.uk general enquiries about this scheme.