Motorists are facing disruption along one of Shrewsbury’s busiest routes for almost two months as part of major roadworks.

Work on Smithfield Road will start on September 19 and run until November 13 as part of a project to make the junction with Raven Meadows safer for cyclists and pedestrians. A wider pavement between the boxing gym and Severn Terrace will be created to provide a shared route.

A new entrance to the bus station is also proposed.

Two toucan crossings will be added across Raven Meadows and Smithfield Road to give pedestrians and cyclists an improved crossing place. Changes to kerb line and traffic lane markings will also be made.

Council officials say traffic disruption should be kept to a minimum during the day, with lane closures in Smithfield Road held at night.

It is part of the Connect2 project in Shrewsbury, to improve pedestrian and cycling access between the west and north of the town.

Councillor Simon Jones, Shropshire Council cabinet member for transport, said: “Smithfield Road is a major traffic through-route in Shrewsbury, so we are making sure there will be minimal disruption to traffic during the day.

“Any lane closures in Smithfield Road will take place at night, and we have placed strict conditions on the contractors, Alun Griffiths, to minimise any inconvenience to the public.”

Councillor Andrew Bannerman, Shropshire councillor for Quarry and Coton Hill, said: “This is an important project for the town, as the current junction layout can be difficult to negotiate by foot and by bike.

“We want to see more people choose to walk and cycle along Smithfield Road in the future and these improvements are essential in order to achieve this.

“The work will also tidy up the area.”

The project is funded by sustainable transport charity Sustrans, which is supported by a £50 million Big Lottery Fund grant.

Shrewsbury is one of 79 places to receive funding from the body.

By Chris Burn