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M6 construction Madeley Heath JLP01_01_165_58
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M6 construction Madeley Heath JLP01_01_165_58
M6 Motorway, M6, Madeley, Newcastle-under-Lyme, Staffordshire. A view of the construction of the Birmingham to Preston Motorway (M6), looking north-west at Waltons Wood near Madeley Heath, on Section D of the motorway, showing a Laing excavator at work in the foreground.
The work on the Birmingham to Preston Motorway (M6), between junctions J13 to J16 started in June 1960 and was carried out by John Laing Construction Ltd. This section at Waltons Wood presented geological problems for the construction team with an embankment failing when severe slipping occurred in 1961. By October 1963, remedial works on the embankment were completed. This photograph was published in June 1963 in Laings monthly newsletter Team Spirit
Historic England is the public body that champions and protects England's historic places
Media ID 24091667
© Historic England Archive. John Laing Photographic Collection
1960s Civil Engineering Construction Excavation Machinery Motorway Road
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EDITORS COMMENTS
This print captures a significant moment in the construction of the iconic M6 Motorway, specifically at Waltons Wood near Madeley Heath in Staffordshire. The image showcases Section D of the motorway, where a Laing excavator can be seen diligently working in the foreground. The Birmingham to Preston Motorway project commenced in June 1960 and was undertaken by John Laing Construction Ltd. However, this particular section presented unique challenges for the construction team due to geological issues. In 1961, severe slipping caused an embankment failure, requiring extensive remedial works that were completed by October 1963. Published in June 1963 as part of Laings monthly newsletter "Team Spirit" this photograph offers a glimpse into the remarkable progress made during this ambitious civil engineering endeavor. It serves as a testament to both human ingenuity and perseverance. The M6 Motorway has since become one of Britain's most vital transportation arteries connecting major cities such as Birmingham and Preston. This historic image not only documents its early stages but also highlights the immense scale of excavation and machinery involved. Preserved within Historic England Archive's collection, this print allows us to appreciate the dedication and skill required to construct such essential infrastructure while providing valuable insight into our nation's rich civil engineering history from the dynamic era of the 1960s.
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