WORK started yesterday on the second phase of improvements to the Wendlebury M40/ A34 interchange near Bicester.

It is hoped the improvements to the M40 junction nine, which include widening lanes on the roundabout and sensors to monitor traffic flow, will reduce congestion. Laybys on the A34 and A41 near the interchange will also be closed permanently, the road resurfaced and street lighting improved.

Ed French, of the Highways Agency, said: “We will be working day and night so that drivers can feel the benefits of the improvements as soon as possible.

“There will be narrow lanes at the junction with a 40mph temporary speed limit and full closures of roads will take place overnight.”