WORKS to make improvements to Junction 1 of the M42 in Bromsgrove are set to get underway next week.

The works include widening of both the A38 northbound exit and southbound approach to the roundabout and a new service road for properties facing the A38 southbound, offering improved access for vehicles.

The improvements are being carried out by Worcestershire County Council will start week beginning July, 20.

It is part of the wider A38 Bromsgrove Improvement scheme, which has already seen improvements made at Barley Mow Lane and work started last month on improvements to junction 4 of the M5.

Councillor Ken Pollock, Worcestershire County Council's cabinet member with responsibility for economy and infrastructure, said: "This is an extremely busy area of the town, so these changes are much needed to improve traffic flow on to and off the island.

“These works will complement the works that we’ve already completed on Barley Mow Lane and those which got underway last month to ease congestion on junction 4 of the M5.”

Highways England regional director Catherine Brookes said: “The improvements to this busy M42 junction are good news for drivers, for local communities and businesses.

"Highways England’s Growth and Housing Fund budget is aimed at helping local communities unlock plans for future housing and to create better journey times and generate jobs.

“The investment in this junction will do just that and will help drive the local economy as well as improving traffic flow and easing the congestion there.”

Gary Woodman, Chief Executive of Worcestershire Local Enterprise Partnership, said: “It is great to see further work on the A38 improvements getting underway.

"Work on both the M5 and now M42 will ease congestion to these popular routes providing businesses, residents and visitors with quicker, more reliable transport times around Worcestershire.

"This will make a big difference for commuters and will enable the county to be better connected as a result.”