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Widening the M1 JLP01_10_10851
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Widening the M1 JLP01_10_10851
HERTFORDSHIRE. Widening works on the M1 in Hertfordshire, showing slipform paving machines laying the surface of a new road alongside the existing carriageways.
Starting in 1981, widening work was carried out on the M1 between Junctions 5 (South Watford) and Junction 8 (Hemel Hempstead). The aim was to convert the
existing two-lane carriageways from Junctions 5 - 7 and three lane carriageways from Junctions 7 - 8 into three lanes southbound, three lanes northbound from Junctions
5 - 6, and four lanes northbound from Junctions 6 - 8
Historic England is the public body that champions and protects England's historic places
Media ID 24083924
© Historic England Archive. John Laing Photographic Collection
1980s Construction Motorway Road
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EDITORS COMMENTS
This print captures the extensive widening works on the M1 in Hertfordshire during the 1980s. The image showcases slipform paving machines diligently laying the surface of a new road alongside the existing carriageways. Starting in 1981, this ambitious project aimed to transform the existing two-lane carriageways between Junctions 5 and 7 into three lanes southbound, while also expanding Junctions 7 to 8 into three lanes northbound. Additionally, from Junctions 5 to 6, three lanes were created for northbound traffic, and from Junctions 6 to 8, four lanes were added. The photograph not only highlights the scale of construction but also emphasizes how infrastructure development has played a crucial role in meeting growing transportation demands over time. It serves as a testament to human ingenuity and engineering prowess. Preserved by Historic England Archive, this snapshot provides us with a glimpse into an era when progress was being made on one of Britain's most important motorways. It reminds us that behind every well-paved road lies countless hours of hard work and meticulous planning. As we admire this image today, let it serve as a reminder that our modern-day highways are built upon foundations laid by those who came before us – individuals dedicated to improving connectivity and enhancing our travel experiences for generations to come.
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