The UK Department for Transport (DfT) has approved £27.4m funding for the development of Little Hadham Bypass in Hertfordshire.

With the government funding, work on the 3.9km northern bypass of the A120 between Bishop’s Stortford and the A10 is expected to begin next month.

The bypass is expected to entail an investment of £40m. It will cut local journey times by a third and reduce congestion and improve air quality.

Under the plan, a 4km single-carriageway bypass will be constructed to the north of Little Hadham.

Once operational, the bypass will improve access to Stansted Airport, contributing to the development of the local economy.

The project will also decrease the risk of flooding in Little Hadham and nearby communities to the south, through work with the Environment Agency to deliver flood reduction measures.

Graham Construction is expected to execute the project, as Hertfordshire County Council identified Graham as the preferred contractor for the A120 Little Hadham Bypass in February this year.

However, name of a formal contractor is yet to be announced.

Roads Minister Jesse Norman said: “Investment in local roads cuts travel time, boosts business, and can improve air quality by cutting congestion.

“This new bypass will significantly benefit both road users and residents in and around Little Hadham, as well as across Hertfordshire.”

Hertfordshire County Council environment and infrastructure director Mark Kemp said: “It’s fantastic news for Hertfordshire that the Department for Transport is to provide this funding for construction of the A120 Little Hadham Bypass.

“The A120 is a vital transport link in the county.”

“The A120 is a vital transport link in the county, so this is a hugely positive step as it’s important that investment is made to improve it.

“The bypass, and flood alleviation scheme, will help to support the growth we’re expecting in Hertfordshire over the next decade or so while improving quality of life in the Little Hadham area.”

Works will start in June 2019 and the scheme is expected to become operational in 2020.