The UK Government intends to invest nearly £1.1bn into improving journeys on some roads in the East of England. Works are expected to begin over the next three months.

This was announced by the UK Transport Secretary Chris Grayling.

The investments will be used towards developing schemes to ease traffic congestion, improve safety and boost the economy.

"These vital schemes in the East of England will not only help relieve congestion, they will also link people with jobs and businesses with customers."

The project works will include the widening of the A12 between Chelmsford and the A120 junction in Essex, as well as improvements on the A428 between Caxton Gibbet roundabout in Cambridgeshire and the Black Cat roundabout in Bedfordshire.

Grayling said: “The government is making a record investment to improve our motorways and major A roads across the country to get motorists to their destinations more quickly, easily and safely.

“These vital schemes in the East of England will not only help relieve congestion, they will also link people with jobs and businesses with customers, helping boost the region’s economy and improving lives.”

Over the next few months, the government intends to begin the process of public consultation, which would give drivers, residents and businesses an opportunity to express their views.

Highways England chief executive Jim O’Sullivan said: “These improvements are made possible by the Government’s £15bn investment in our strategic roads.

"They are much needed by the half a million drivers who use them every day.

“Each scheme has been developed by working with local partners and through this consultation we are welcoming views on them.

"I encourage anyone with an interest in these roads, whether they drive on them, live near them or depend on them for trade, to get involved.”

With this announcement, the government will initiate works on the £1.5bn A14 upgrade between Cambridge and Huntingdon.