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M6 construction Madeley Heath JLP01_08_059936
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M6 construction Madeley Heath JLP01_08_059936
M6 Motorway, M6, Madeley, Newcastle-under-Lyme, Staffordshire. A view of the construction of the Birmingham to Preston Motorway (M6), showing a watercourse at Waltons Wood near Madeley Heath, with workers digging on the bank nearest and a bagged concrete revetment on the opposite side.
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
Historic England is the public body that champions and protects England's historic places
Media ID 24091653
© Historic England Archive. John Laing Photographic Collection
1960s Construction Motorway Road
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EDITORS COMMENTS
This print captures the early stages of construction for the iconic M6 Motorway in Madeley Heath, Staffordshire. Taken by A© Historic England Archive, it showcases a view of workers diligently digging on the bank nearest to a picturesque watercourse at Waltons Wood. On the opposite side, a bagged concrete revetment stands as a testament to their hard work and dedication. The Birmingham to Preston Motorway (M6) project commenced in June 1960 under the expertise of John Laing Construction Ltd. However, this particular section presented significant geological challenges for the construction team. In 1961, an embankment failure occurred due to severe slipping, adding complexity to an already demanding endeavor. Undeterred by setbacks, the skilled workers persevered and completed remedial works on the embankment by October 1963. Their unwavering commitment ensured that this crucial stretch of road would soon connect two major cities and revolutionize transportation in the region. This photograph serves as a poignant reminder of both human ingenuity and nature's unpredictable forces. It encapsulates an era when progress was measured not only by miles of asphalt laid but also by overcoming obstacles with determination and resilience. As we admire this snapshot from history, let us acknowledge those who labored tirelessly behind-the-scenes to shape our modern infrastructure while cherishing our natural landscapes along the way.
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