The first phase of construction work on the A629 will begin this week.

Improvements to the notoriously busy road will commence on Tuesday, August 2, and are set to continue for four months.

The scheme will begin to remodel the busy Elland Bypass which is infamous for traffic congestion.

Calderdale Council want to introduce cycle paths, extra lanes and pedestrian crossings in the £1 billion work, which is funded by the West Yorkshire Plus Transport Fund.

Bosses say the works will help Halifax cope with increased traffic, which is expected to happen if hospital shake up plans to close Huddersfield’s A&aE department go ahead.

A629 Huddersfield Road, Halifax, where major roadworks are to take place.

Clr Barry Collins, Calderdale Council’s Cabinet member for regeneration and economic development, said: “We are making unprecedented investment in local transport infrastructure, which will have a lasting positive impact on residents, visitors and traffic flow.

“The council’s first priority is the A629 corridor, from the Elland bypass through to Halifax town centre, focusing on tackling congestion, reducing journey times, benefiting the environment and making it safer and easier for people to walk and cycle.”