MULTI-million pound works designed to improve Barrow's roads are set to get under way next month.

Work is scheduled to start in May on the next phase of a £4.5m maintenance works programme on Jubilee Bridge.

It will involve steelwork and concrete repairs and repainting the Walney end of the Victorian structure.

Two-way traffic will be maintained during the day and some of the works will be carried out overnight wherever possible.

During overnight works, temporary traffic lights and occasional road closures will be required.

On the junctions of North Road and Bridge Road, where there is currently a roundabout, and Michaelson Road and Buccleuch Dock Road, the council will also be installing traffic lights.

This follows other major alterations to North Road, including the installation of underground power cables and the widening of the road to support growth at BAE Systems and the Port.

Dave Staunton, the owner of Premier Tiles off North Road, said: “The whole process has been an absolute nightmare - a joke - shambolic.

“North Road has been gridlocked and it has already caused a dramatic effect on our business - footfall has been non-existent.

“I am devastated that the proposed work has been announced when we have already had 20 months of upheaval.”

Cllr Keith Little, Cumbria County Council cabinet member for Highways and Transport, said: “The council recognises the strategic importance of Jubilee Bridge and we are committed to securing the future of the bridge and ensure it is fit for purpose.

"Jubilee Bridge needs this essential maintenance – if the work isn’t done, there would eventually be a significant impact on the use of the bridge. We believe the road junction improvements will support growth at BAE Systems and the Port and play a significant role in helping the town to prosper.”

Drop-in events are planned on April 29 between 2pm-7pm at the Ferry on Walney and on May 2 at Tesco Extra between 11am-7pm for people to find out more.