Up to £75 million is being provided by the UK Government for councils to carry out road improvement works across England.

A total of 19 projects will receive Highways maintenance challenge funding to refurbish bridges, improve junctions and boost flood defences.

The improvements aim to cut congestion, reduce journey times and improve reliability, as well as helping to support local businesses and boost economic growth.

Key developments include a £4.6m refurbishment of the A589 Greyhound Bridge in Lancashire, while road users in Devon will benefit from a major carriageway and drainage renewal scheme to regenerate the dual-carriageway stretch of the A361.

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Elsewhere, £5m is being provided in Northumberland for crucial maintenance to repair and strengthen key routes for the rural and regional economy.

The challenge fund is one part of the £6.1 billion being provided to local highway authorities in England, outside London, between 2015 to 2016 and 2020 to 2021.

Transport Minister Jesse Norman said: "We are taking the big decisions for Britain's future by investing in the infrastructure the country needs and ensuring motorists have the well maintained roads they expect and deserve.

"This investment will enable councils to repair roads and key infrastructure like bridges – boosting reliability on our roads so people can stay connected with family, friends and employment, while also keeping businesses connected with customers.

"Most of the schemes will be delivered within the next 12 months, so many drivers will see an immediate impact."

To view a map of where schemes are being carried out, visit here.

(LM)