Long-running roadworks that have been the source of anger and frustration among Swindon drivers for months are close to completion, the council says.

Work on the Mead Way which started before the Covid pandemic hit was due to last for 20 weeks, at a cost of £4m. Yet work is still going on after missed deadlines.

A safety barrier above the underpass is now being installed and the council hopes to remove the temporary traffic management measures soon. 

In May the authority was accused by Labour members of losing control of the project.

Another scheme that has overrun is the Piccadilly Roundabout.

But in an update the council says it will aim to complete that work on August 12.

Gary Sumner, Cabinet Member for Strategic Infrastructure, Transport and Planning said: “We have contractors on site for the Nythe and Piccadilly schemes finishing off the work, but it is important to note that these roads are still open to motorists.

“We appreciate there may be minor inconveniences for local residents as the work is finished but it is necessary to make sure everything is complete.

“Work will continue over the next two weeks and a finish date of Friday, 12 August is currently planned in for Nythe Road/Oxford Road junction and Piccadilly Roundabout.

“We will then work with the contractor to undergo a site inspection to confirm if the work is up to standard. After this has been agreed, there is a 52-week defect period where the contractor must repair any faults.

“Residents can sign up to the New Eastern Villages newsletter to get the latest updates for the scheme: www.swindon.gov.uk/newsletter

“We would also like to reassure residents that work on Mead Way is nearing completion, as the safety barrier across the subway is now being installed and we hope to remove the temporary traffic management measures soon.”