A £28 million investment will see the construction of new viaduct , building three lanes of carriageway, a shared footway, cycleway and a new footpath.

Once completed in winter 2016, this Highways Agency project will reduce congestion and make the route safer while helping economic growth in the local area.

Highways Agency East Regional Director, Catherine Brookes, said: “Building a new viaduct and demolishing the old one demonstrates our commitment to improving our road network and helping to stimulate growth.

“We have worked hard with our contractor to plan the work carefully to minimise disruption and are engaging with those affected to ensure they’re aware of the work.”

Alan Bill, Managing Director of GRAHAM Construction, said: “GRAHAM are delighted to be working with the Highways Agency to safeguard the A138 as a strategic highway link.

“Throughout the duration of this project we, as we do on all of our contracts, will work with the local supply chain and use subcontractors and suppliers from across the region as well as engaging with the local community to ensure there is minimal disruption during the course of this project.”