LONG-awaited improvements to the A64 dual carr-iageway have finally been completed after months of work.

The £4.1m scheme to replace the traffic light controlled junction at Top Lane, Copmanthorpe, near York, was finished on schedule.

The improvements to the A64, including the removal of the traffic signals, have already brought significant benefits to motorists.

The final phase of the scheme, which provides a segregated route for local people between York and Copmanthorpe village via an underpass, was officially opened this week.

A footbridge has also been built over a railway line to link to the existing pedestrian and cycling routes in the area.

Work will start later in the year on landscaping work, which will involve a substantial amount of planting to complement the new layout.

The project manager for the Highways Agency, David Phillips, said: "The delays and accident risks associated with the original layout have now been removed and local people no longer have to cross the busy dual carriageway to get to and from York.

"I would remind drivers, however, to take particular care negotiating the junction until they become familiar with the new layout and the revised traffic arrangements."