The UK Department for Transport (DfT) is set to invest £25m ($32m) towards upgrading the York outer ring road (YORR).

The proposed project will involve dualling the A1237’s six sections. The road is used by an estimated 37,000 drivers a day.

The YORR project aims to reduce congestion and move traffic away from the city centre.

It is also expected to boost economic growth, provide safe pedestrian and cycle routes and improve air quality.

Roads Minister Baroness Vere said: “York is a fantastic city steeped in history and we want everyone to be able to enjoy it without the risk of getting stuck in traffic or travelling on unsafe roads.

“This vital upgrade will not only provide a new and efficient route for drivers but will also see the development of new shared footpaths and cycleways, helping the city become a cleaner, greener place to live.”

The dual work will be carried out on sections from the A19 Shipton road in the west to the Hopgrove Junction and Malton Road / A64 in the east.

It is expected to begin late next year and is projected to be completed in December 2022.

City of York Council lead councillor Keith Aspden said: “We’re delighted to have achieved the next step for this significant investment in York’s transport network.

“Dualling the outer ring road is a long-held ambition of many residents, visitors and businesses, not just in York but across the region.”