THERE will be roadworks on a busy Halesowen dual carriageway until next year while a new crossing and improved traffic signals are installed.

The crossing will be put in on the A456 Manor Way near Halesowen Athletics Club.

Work will also take place to improve traffic signals, widen the pavement to include cycle lanes and new signs.

The whole stretch of the A456 will also be made 40mph instead of 50mph. Work, which began this week, will involve lane closures, but not complete road closures, and is expected to last until April 1 next year.

Councillor Karen Shakespeare, Dudley Council's cabinet member for public realm, said: “The work is part of our Active Travel Fund programme to encourage alternatives to using the car such as walking and cycling. "Manor Way has been earmarked for a new crossing near to the athletics club, improved traffic signals, widening of the pavement to include cycle lanes and new signs.

"There are also plans to make the whole stretch of the A456 40mph instead of 50.

"The majority of the work will be completed outside peak traffic times to minimise disruption for traffic as much as we can.

"The work is expected to be completed by spring next year and we thank motorists for their patience while we carry out this important work.”

The improved signal work is at the junction of the A456 Manor Way and Manor Lane.