Work to start on village bypass

A scheme for a bypass to ease traffic congestion in a Leicestershire village should get under way in a few months' time, councillors have said.

The Earl Shilton bypass has been planned for more than 20 years and £15m of government funding was confirmed in July 2006.

Transport minister Gillian Merron has now given her approval, the final stage in the planning process.

It is hoped work will start in the autumn, with the road opening in 2008.

"I am delighted this project is going ahead in Earl Shilton," said Ms Merron.

"By removing through-traffic, including HGVs, from the town centre it will not only reduce noise and pollution for local residents but also create a much safer environment for the town's cyclists and pedestrians."

The bypass route is about 5km (three miles) long and follows the corridor that links the A47 perimeter road from a new roundabout at Carrs Hill to the A47 Leicester Road.