LONG-awaited work on a major York junction will finally get under way next week.

City of York Council will next Monday begin a major project to create a new roundabout linking Moor Lane and the A1237.

The massive £3.5 million redevelopment follows a series of accidents at the Askham Lane/Moor Lane ring road junction, including several fatalities.

Welcoming the news, local councillor Tom Holvey said: "I am delighted that work on this roundabout is starting at last.

"This is a busy, dangerous junction and we are pleased that road safety will be improved."

The roundabout will connect Moor Lane, Askham Lane and Askham Bryan Lane.

Direct routes for cyclists and pedestrians heading to or from Askham Bryan will be retained away from the roundabout via the two existing crossing points.

A council spokesperson said the scheme had been designed so that a large proportion of the works were away from the existing roads, and hence could be carried out with minimal disruption to existing traffic flows.

She said: "Where lane closures are required these will be confined to off-peak periods.

"Appropriate routes for cyclists and pedestrians will be maintained at all times."

Transport boss Coun Ann Reid said: "Local residents have been campaigning for over ten years for improvements to this junction because they know how dangerous it is to negotiate.

"I am grateful for their support in finally getting this roundabout approved. By building the new roundabout to one side of the A1237 it is hoped to keep disruption to the minimum."

Council leader Steve Galloway said: "This new roundabout will improve three difficult junctions and make access to Askham Lane and Moor Lane much easier.

"Despite some political opposition the vast majority of residents support the provision of this roundabout."

Morrison Construction will carry out the works, which are programmed to be substantially completed early in the new year.