Highways England is to complete or lift current road works ahead of the festive period.

Highways England is to complete or lift current road works ahead of the festive period

The move will mean almost 99% of motorways and strategic A roads will be roadworks-free in time for Christmas.

RAC spokesman Rod Dennis said: “This will be welcome news for millions of shoppers – and indeed commuters – in the run up to Christmas. With stress levels bound to increase as we get closer to the 25th, drivers can take some reassurance that at least roadworks shouldn’t be adding to their frustration.

“That’s not to say there won’t be hold ups on particularly busy parts of the road network though, so we strongly recommend drivers plan their journeys carefully and try and avoid peak times if they can. Those on the hunt for Christmas gifts are advised to stick to weekdays for their shopping wherever possible, to avoid the inevitable jams that are characteristic of the last few frantic weekends before Christmas.”