Roadworks across the country are to be either completed or suspended for the coming festive period, with more than 400 miles of carriageway to be opened up to deliver smoother traffic flows this week.

Coming into effect from December 23rd, the Highways Agency has announced it will be calling a halt to more than 97 per cent of current transport network projects across the nation, ensuring anyone planning journeys between now and the New Year are able to reach their destination with as little hassle and as swiftly as possible.

Highways Agency director of customer operations Simon Sheldon-Wilson said: "This Christmas, we're helping road users make important journeys to see family and friends by clearing roadworks across the majority of motorways and major A roads in England.

"This will be a great help to people travelling over the festive period – by lifting or completing roadworks, more lanes will be open and many of the associated speed restrictions will also be lifted.

"We advise drivers to plan longer journeys before setting out, making sure you check weather and travel conditions."

A total of 156 transport improvement projects are to be affected by the announcement, with the agency committing to ensuring drivers across the country will not face unnecessary hold-ups if it can be helped.

Coming into effect from 06:00 GMT on December 23rd, the hiatus on transport network improvements will remain in place until January 2nd.

However, narrow lanes and temporary speed restrictions will continue to be upheld at 63 locations across the country, as these measures are to stay in place for the safety of all travellers in the area.

Anyone planning journeys over the coming festive break should remember to leave additional time to reach their destination due to the likely large volume of traffic on the roads, while they should also be prepared for possible delays as a result of adverse winter weather.