MOTORISTS can expect long delays in the new year when the A34 is cut to one lane each way and a 40mph speed limit imposed for ten weeks.

Resurfacing work will be carried out on the busy A-road between the West Ilsley junction and the A417 overbridge, near Didcot, in a £3m scheme.

Road bosses admit it will cause major delays for drivers, while villagers in the area fear they will be overrun by motorists seeking to bypass the jams.

The contraflow system comes into effect on January 15, but the completion date of the end of March will depend on weather conditions.

The 40mph speed limit will be enforced by speed cameras.

Northbound slip roads, at the West Ilsley and Chilton interchanges, will also be closed when traffic is in contraflow on the southbound carriageway. Signed diversion routes will be in place during this period.

The work, being carried out by the Highways Agency, also includes drainage and safety fence improvements. Some road signs will also be replaced.

Highways Agency spokesman Martin Deller said: "The quality of the road surface is not up to our standards at the moment.

"Once it is complete, people who use the road will notice the improved condition and everyone will have a much smoother journey."

West Hagbourne parish councillor Roger Sweet, who said his village was already a popular shortcut, added: "I am dreading it. It is likely to cause a lot more traffic through our village. There is a very narrow stretch and a lot of sharp bends. It is not suitable for these volumes of traffic."

East Hagbourne resident Margaret Emery said: "We know from past experience traffic will divert to find other routes when there are problems. Sat-nav systems send lorries down Blewbury Road and that could happen more if they're looking for alternative routes.

"There are very narrow footpaths so it is a danger to pedestrians and children."

Earlier this year, similar improvement works to the A34 between the Pear Tree interchange and Weston-on-the-Green caused major headaches for motorists.