Major works to improve two Basingstoke roundabouts are due to start at the beginning of next year.

The county council has agreed to sanction £10.6million plans to help reduce congestion at the A33 Crockford and Binfields roundabouts.

Changes to both include widening the road on the roundabouts and existing approach roads, installing new traffic signals, upgrading pedestrian and cycle facilities, and improving drainage works.

A major part of the improvements will centre around addressing the root cause of the flooding seen last week between the roundabouts, stemming from a balancing pond north of the A33.

Investigations have already been undertaken into the implications the extra drainage from the scheme could have on the balancing pond, with steps therefore set to be taken to widen and line the pond, while creating a new drainage system.

The works are expected to take around 18 months to complete, after a contractor is appointed, with the council’s executive member for transport insisting the changes could aid future job creation in the area.

Cllr Rob Humby said: “The A33 corridor is a key strategic route for Basingstoke, providing a link between the A339 Ringway and the north east of Basingstoke to the M4 and Reading.

“This £10.6m package of improvements will reduce delays and queuing at several major junctions.

“The scheme will also include improvement work to the drainage system and local balancing pond, which will help to minimise the risk of flooding that occurs between the two roundabouts, as seen only last week.”

He added: “This route will also help ease congestion in two of the major employment areas in Basingstoke, Chineham and Hampshire International Business Parks, as well as aid any potential expansions and future job creation. “In addition, the improvements will seek to unlock several key development sites along the corridor.”