Bypass to be improved after several fatal crashes

The A45 Flore bypass, which runs parallel to the M1, opened in 2018

Changes are being made to a major road that has seen several fatal crashes since it was built seven years ago.

Works on the A45 Flore Bypass in Northamptonshire will begin overnight on Monday 4 August.

West Northamptonshire Council (WNC) says a central hatched area will be introduced to make it clear that the road is a single - and not a dual - carriageway.

"A new enforcement bay is also being built at the end of the bypass near the M1, and the route will be subject to an increased number of police patrols," a WNC spokesman added.

A van driver died on the bypass in February, after a crash in broad daylight with a white Mercedes Sprinter. At least two other drivers have died in collisions since the bypass opened in 2018.

The council spokesman said: "A central hatched area is being introduced on the Flore Bypass to improve road safety following several incidents.

"This is being done to give a visual guide to motorists that the road layout is a single carriageway and to reduce the number of accidents caused by overtakes."

The road will be fully closed each night from Monday 4 to Tuesday 19 August, between 20:00 and 06:00 BST, with a signed diversion route.

"The council appreciates residents' patience while these important improvements are carried out to enhance safety for all road users," the spokesman added.