WORK on the first phase of £4.1million improvements at Tweenaway Cross, Paignton, is due to start a week on Monday.

Torbay Council says that it will try to limit traffic disruption, although some delays should be expected.

The work will start on September 20 and is expected to last until mid-June next year.

The Government-funded scheme, part of the Bay's transport plan, is intended to improve traffic flows and reduce congestion.

The first phase should be finished ahead of the main tourism season, with the second phase due to start in the autumn next year.

Some advance work has already been carried out, including demolition of houses and diverting underground services for the widening of the junction.

The plan is to create extra approach lanes in Totnes Road, Kings Ash Road and Brixham Road.

Additional islands are planned to improve crossing for pedestrians, especially for pupils at Paignton Community College.

There will be new traffic lights and the junction will also be resurfaced.

Transport councillor Chris Lewis said the scheme represented a major investment in one of the Bay's busiest junctions.

"Tweenaway Cross has been in need of improvement for some time and this scheme will provide for future increases in traffic at the junction," he said.

"These works highlight Torbay Council's commitment to improving the highway network to meet the needs of both residents and business communities."

The council says the next phase will include widening Totnes Road between the zoo car park and the Noah's Ark pub.

Compulsory purchase orders to buy land and gain access rights have been advertised but there have been no objections and the council is waiting for the Government to confirm the orders.

A council spokesman said: "We are still intending to acquire all the properties by agreement and this is progressing well.

"If any are not be acquired by this route, we would look to serve notice on them after we have received confirmation from the Secretary of State."