WORK starts today on two schemes aimed at making two of Middlesbrough's main roads safer.

The schemes follow lengthy public consultation and approval by Middlesbrough Council's cabinet.

The first phase of works on the Marton Road corridor and the Acklam Road corridor begins today, with work expected to be completed by March next year.

The first construction phase of the £1.5m Marton Road scheme, from Guisborough Road to Belle Vue roundabout, is expected to last 28 weeks.

Traffic lights will be installed at Gypsy Lane/Gunnergate Lane, at the A174 Parkway, Broughton Avenue and the Marton Way junctions.

Cycleways are also to be marked out, with improvements to existing footpaths. Pedestrian facilities along the length of the road will be improved, and there will be new bus laybys installed.

The Acklam Road scheme, from Ladgate Lane to Oxford Road, will cost £600,000 and will improve bus stops, pedestrian facilities, install pelican crossings at Urlay Grove, and incorporate cycle lanes.

Traffic lights will be installed at the junctions of Cambridge Road and Oxford Road, with pedestrian and cycle facilities.

Oliver Johnson, Middlesbrough Council's commissioner for environment, said: "These projects will improve the environment along two of Middlesbrough's main transport corridors. The measures will benefit all road users, widen travel choice and improve the safety of more vulnerable users such as children, pedestrians and cyclists."

Detailed plans are on show in various locations around Middlesbrough. For more information, phone the contact centre on (01642) 726001.