Work starts to improve stretch of A43 in Northamptonshire

Highways England, which is carrying out the project near Abthorpe, says the work will be carried out during the day to minimise the impact on nearby homes that would be affected by overnight work. Drivers have been warned to expect delays during certain periods.

A spokesman said: “We are carrying out the scheme to increase capacity and cut journey times by adding extra lanes to the roundabout junction approaches, improving the layout, installing new traffic lights and upgraded pedestrian crossings.

“The scheme will also give the roundabout the capacity it needs for the future, supporting thousands of new homes and jobs in the area and an expected increase in traffic volumes,” he said.

Kevin Harvey, project manager for Highways England, said: “This is about improving the roundabout for everyone who lives in the area as well as better, more reliable journeys for drivers. We’ll also be making the junction safer and more accessible for pedestrians, cyclists and horse riders.”

The first phase of the scheme involves moving utility services, including broadband and water, before the start of the main construction work in the summer, he said.

“This work will be carried out by the utility service providers during the daytime where possible due to the closeness of the roundabout to nearby homes, to avoid noise at night.

Mr Harvey added: “We’ll do all we can to minimise disruption to people’s journeys and the impact on local businesses and residents while also protecting the safety of colleagues working on our network.

“We will also carefully consider the impact of noisy activities on residents and businesses in close proximity of the junction when working at night.”

There will be lane closures in place during the day between 9.30am and 3.30pm, avoiding the busiest times of day, and there will be no lane closures on Fridays.