SAFETY improvements for drivers and pedestrians at a busy junction will start this week.

New traffic islands, improved road surface and pedestrian crossing facilities, along with increased signage and road markings, will take place at Staxton crossroads on the A64.

The work is being carried out as part of a £22 million investment along the coastal route taking place over 2019/2020 to improve safety and congestion.

Highways England project manager Michael Hoult said: “These improvements are part of our wider investment being carried out along the A64 over the next financial year to improve congestion and safety for drivers, as well as pedestrians and cyclists.

“We’re installing two traffic islands on the A64 where vehicles approach the junction’s traffic lights. These will help to guide approaching traffic into the correct lanes, reducing the need for people to change lanes close to the junction.

“We’re also installing new crossing facilities for pedestrians at Old Malton Road and Wood Lane and extending the pedestrian guardrail to the east of Staxton Willerby Road.”

The work will start on Monday, September 9, and will be carried out week nights only, from 9pm to 6am. There will be temporary traffic lights overnight and Staxton Willerby Road will be closed, clearly signed diversions will be in place.

The work is expected to take about three weeks.