Motorists are set to face traffic delays around Hitchin after roadworks started in Charlton Road earlier today.

Work has begun to widen the footway, with the road expected to be closed between 9.30am and 4pm each day for more than two weeks.

The changes – aimed at improving safety for pedestrians and cyclists – have been made after a member of the public contacted Hitchin South councillor Derek Ashley raising their concerns.

Councillor Ashley told the Comet: “These works are about trying to improve access for pedestrians and cyclists. One of the problems is the footway is exceptionally narrow which is not conducive to encouraging people to walk along it and out into the country.

“It inhibits people walking along it with children because the traffic comes quite close to the kerb which can be quite intimidating.

“It was brought to my attention by a local resident, and I recommended its improvement as a priority using funding from the highways locality budget.

“It’s regrettable there are delays, but there are alternative routes. There are lots of utility works going on in Hitchin at the moment – meaning there is lots of traffic around, including Brand Street and the work currently going on with the gas mains.

“I find it as frustrating as anyone – but these are essential works which need to be undertaken which will benefit pedestrians and cyclists alike.”

A spokesman for Herts County Council said: “We aim to keep disruption to a minimum and have working restrictions for our busiest roads so most journeys in peak times are unaffected. However some exceptional works require traffic management during peak times.”

The works, undertaken by Ringway contractors working on behalf of Herts County Council, are set to continue until March 6.