WORK to improve the junction of Anstey Road and Anstey Lane in Alton is set to start later this year.

The project will begin in summer and is set to cost £1.4 million.

Councillor Rob Humby, deputy leader of Hampshire County Council and executive member for transport, gave the go ahead for the works at his recent decision day.

He said: “This scheme will deliver a much needed upgrade to the junction by introducing traffic signal control and additional carriageway width to better manage the flows of turning traffic.

“These improvements will increase the capacity of the junction and will provide signalised pedestrian crossing facilities and improved provision for cyclists.”

Anstey Road is the main eastern route of access between Alton town centre and the A31.

Current traffic flows mean that during the morning and afternoon rush hours the junction is operating at capacity, which leads to queues on Anstey Lane and Anstey Road.

The scheme is being funded by developer contributions and after a contractor is chosen should be completed by autumn.