Roadworks will start on the A24 Horsham bypass next month for seven weeks as crash barriers are put in place.

The project is due to start on Monday, January 13, and will cover the 1.4km section northwards from Hop Oast roundabout to the Railway Bridge.

It is expected to take between six and seven weeks to complete and cones may be put out the day before work starts.

Sussex Police will enforce a temporary speed limit of 40mph and 24-hour lane closures will be in operation on both carriageways.

In an attempt to reduce congestion on the Hop Oast roundabout, selective lanes will be reopened during peak periods.

However, drivers are advised to allow at least an extra ten minutes for their journey.

The scheme is part of West Sussex County Council's continuing commitment to reducing road casualties.

It is designed by Halcrow Group Ltd, which will also supervise the work to be carried out by Interserve Project Services Ltd.

Lieutenant Colonel Tex Pemberton, Cabinet member for the environment, said: "I am delighted to see this further advancement of the A24 safety fencing programme which is only possible due to a successful bid by the county council for government funding.

"An extra £315,000 was promised, provided the barriers could be in place and paid for by the end of March.

"I would like to apologise for any delays which motorists might experience during this essential work."