Highways England engineers have embarked on a new project to reduce the risk of flooding for travellers on and communities in the vicinity of the A66 near Embleton, Northumberland.

A one-mile stretch of the carriageway has been particularly prone to flooding in recent years, causing considerable disruption to travellers.

As a result, new storm drains are to be installed along this busy stretch of road, while extensive resurfacing and road marking replacement will also take place in the area.

Highways England project manager Peter Gee said: "Drivers should notice a significant improvement in the road conditions here when work is completed. In the meantime, we aim to get the work done within a tight timescale and keep disruption to a minimum."

The project is scheduled to get underway this week and engineers are aiming for completion of the works by early April.

As such, a system of temporary traffic lights have been installed for travellers in the area for the duration of the works, while full road closures will be required during some evenings and weekends.

Dates of closures will be announced in the weeks to come, with all closures to take place between the hours of 20:00 and 06:00. During these times, clearly signposted diversions will be in operation, with drivers advised to travel via the nearby A591 and A595.

A break in the works has been scheduled to coincide with the Easter bank holiday.