A40 roadworks set to begin after delays

It had been hoped work on the Access to Witney scheme would begin late last year

Work is set to begin on a major road which a council has said will reduce congestion in a town centre.

The £25m Access to Witney project will see new slip roads at the A40's junction with Shores Green.

Oxfordshire County Council said the project, which had been due to start last year, would allow traffic from the east to access the westbound A40 without going via the centre of Witney.

It added there would be improvements to pedestrian and cycling facilities in the Shores Green area to improve safety and support more active travel.

Lib Dem councillor Judy Roberts, cabinet member for infrastructure and development strategy, said: "This scheme will make a real difference to people's lives, reducing congestion and improving air quality."

Work had been expected to start late last year but was held up due to "a delay in land negotiations and the compulsory purchase order decision", according to the council.

Labour councillor Duncan Enright previously said he shared the "frustration" of people in Witney over the delays.

He said the project would "both address congestion and pollution levels" in the town.

The speed limit on the affected area of the A40 will be reduced to 50mph (80km/h) from Monday until the project is complete, with one lane being closed in both directions over the same period.

Construction is due to begin in the spring, with the scheme expected to be completed by mid-2026.