M3 Junction 9 Improvement Scheme
VolkerGround Engineering has played a key role in the development and delivery of the M3 Junction 9 Improvement Scheme, a major infrastructure project designed to improve connectivity between the M3 and A34, reduce congestion and enhance safety at one of the South East’s busiest motorway junctions.
The scheme will introduce free-flowing links between the M3 and A34 in both directions, improving journey reliability and traffic flow. Works also include widening the motorway from three to four lanes through the junction and constructing two new bridges on the gyratory system. In addition, the project will provide improved routes for pedestrians, cyclists and horse riders, strengthening connections between Kings Worthy, Winnall, Long Walk and Easton Lane.
Early involvement and design development
VolkerGround Engineering’s involvement began in May 2021, during the early stages of VolkerFitzpatrick’s bid process. With limited design information available, the team provided specialist advice on the proposed M3 underpass, offering early insights into construction methodology, programme considerations and potential cost efficiencies that helped shape the developing scheme.
As the design progressed, VolkerGround Engineering worked closely with Stantec through a series of engineering workshops in January 2023. Key structures, including the M3 underpass, A34 underpass and principal retaining wall systems, were reviewed to identify practical and efficient construction solutions. This collaborative approach helped establish the foundations of the piling and retaining wall strategy adopted for the project.
Following formation of the Balfour Beatty and VolkerFitzpatrick joint venture in 2023, VolkerGround Engineering continued to support the development of both the concrete piling and sheet piling solutions, providing specialist geotechnical expertise throughout the design and tender stages. After becoming actively involved in the tender process for all piling elements from March 2024, the team was awarded the sheet piling package in April 2025.
More than 500 tonnes of sheet piles are being installed across the scheme to facilitate bridge construction and maintain existing land ownership boundaries. VolkerGround Engineering’s extensive Early Contractor Involvement, spanning almost five years before mobilisation, enabled the team to identify construction risks early, improve buildability and deliver significant value engineering opportunities.
Working adjacent to a live motorway presented a range of logistical and technical challenges. Restricted access, complex traffic management arrangements and confined working areas required careful planning and coordination throughout the design and construction process. Early engagement enabled temporary works solutions to be developed around the specific requirements of the piling equipment, helping to improve efficiency and reduce potential programme risks.
Close collaboration between the client, designers and principal contractor also allowed construction methodologies to be refined to ensure works could be undertaken safely while minimising disruption to motorway users. Sequencing of the piling works was carefully coordinated alongside other contractors operating within a demanding programme, including night-shift operations and planned weekend road closures required to complete critical installation activities.
Specialist piling solutions
Delivery of the works required a range of specialist sheet piling installation techniques to overcome site constraints, environmental considerations and the challenges associated with working alongside a strategic motorway network. Through detailed planning and innovative construction methods, VolkerGround Engineering successfully adapted its approach to suit the varying conditions encountered across the scheme.
The project highlights the value of early collaboration, specialist geotechnical expertise and proactive project planning in delivering complex infrastructure projects. By supporting the design and installation of critical retaining structures, VolkerGround Engineering has helped enable the successful transformation of Junction 9, creating a more resilient transport network that will deliver long-term benefits for road users, local communities and the wider regional economy.