National Highways in the UK has received approval for its proposals to enhance traffic flow at three bottlenecks on the A38 Derby Junctions.

The government has granted its approval for the project by issuing a Development Consent Order, which will enhance travel by modernising the roundabouts at the locations of Kingsway, Markeaton, and Little Eaton.

National Highways' regional delivery director Anita Prashar said: “The A38 is an important route from Birmingham to the M1 at junction 28. Where it passes through Derby, long-distance traffic interacts with a large volume of vehicles making local journeys resulting in congestion and delays. Our upgrade will change that.

“This vital work will deliver much-needed additional capacity, providing better connectivity for people and businesses and safer journeys for everyone.”

National Highways' proposals received initial authorisation in January 2021, but the decision was dismissed following a court challenge and a subsequent overruling High Court judgement.

After the decision, the application was put through an extensive redetermination procedure.

The A38 Derby Junctions plan aims to alleviate congestion and enhance route time dependability by improving the A38/A5111 Kingsway roundabout, A38/A52 Markeaton roundabout, and A38/A61 Little Eaton roundabout.

Additionally, the project will promote the regional growth and expansion of the city of Derby and the surrounding area.

UK Transport Secretary Mark Harper said: “We continue to invest to improve our roads in the East Midlands and across the country, which will help create jobs, grow the economy and reduce congestion.

“We have allocated £24bn in funding to ensure we have a road network that is safe, reliable and well-maintained whilst implementing our clear plan to reach net zero.”