A £7m improvement scheme to ease congestion on a notorious stretch of the A51 in Chester will get under way in August.

Cheshire West and Chester Council says preparation work will start this week in readiness for the main works to begin at the start of next month on a date yet to be confirmed.

The initial works will have little impact on traffic flow between the Vicars Cross and Tarvin roundabout junctions at this stage, but the council has warned that disruption is inevitable once the full works start.

The local authority unveiled its plans to improve the area last year during two information drop-in sessions and says it has used the feedback to help shape the development of the final scheme designs.

The major junction and roundabout improvements will see:

  • Additional lanes at the Stamford Bridge traffic lights involving the widening of the existing bridge over the River Gowy.
  • Additional signage and carriageway markings at Tarvin roundabout to encourage the use of both lanes heading southbound.
  • Changes to the road layout, widening, lane markings and better signage along the length of the route.
  • New crossing points and improved footpaths for pedestrians, bus users and cyclists are also planned in a bid to reduce delays and congestion, promote greener transport, and improve air quality.

Deputy leader and cabinet member for environment, highways and strategic transport, councillor Karen Shore, said: "These works are in preparation for the start of the main scheme of improvements which will begin in August.

"A confirmed start date will be publicised as soon as plans are finalised.

"This stretch of road is well known for long travel delays and the council is keen to make improvements to ease traffic congestion and improve journey time.

"Improving traffic flow through this section of the A51 will also improve air quality by cutting down nitrogen dioxide emissions from queuing vehicles.

"Although some inconvenience is inevitable, works will be planned to ensure minimum disruption while this essential project takes shape."

Funding for the £7.29 million scheme involves match funding from the Cheshire and Warrington Local Enterprise Partnership’s Local Growth Fund.