MOTORISTS are warned to expect delays when work on a busy junction in Braintree gets underway.

Improvements are being made to the intersection of Pierrefitte Way and Rayne Road to coincide with Redrow Homes' new development in the area, which will see 127 new homes built.

The works consist of island and junction improvements to increase capacity at the junction, in preparation for the additional traffic generated by the development.

Contractors will begin working on Monday, November 2, and estimate the project will take four weeks to complete.

Traffic management during this period will be done by using the existing traffic lights for the majority of the work.

However, temporary four-way lights will be in place between November 19 and 23.

A limited number of overnight works will also be required in order to carry out placing of new ducts, carriageway resurfacing and white lining works.

They will take place on November 17, 19 and 20.

During overnight works, the right turn lane from Pierrefitte Way into Rayne Road will be closed with temporary traffic lights being used for the rest of the junction.

A spokesman for Essex Highways, which is in charge of the works, said: "We appreciate this is a traffic sensitive site but, please be assured that every action will be taken by ourselves to minimize disruption and to complete the scheme as quickly and diligently as possible.

"The existing pedestrian crossing at Pierrefitte Way will remain open for the duration of the works and a dedicated traffic management operative will guide pedestrians through the works during normal working hours."

Bosses say the scheduled works may be subject to change if they are affected by poor weather or unexpected issues occur.