Plans to make major improvements to the A511 between Coalville and Ashby are set to move a step closer - but the final cost of the scheme could be around £15million higher than forecast.

Work is scheduled to start in two years' time.

Last year, the Government approved the county council's initial plans and awarded £40million to the scheme, which will improve eight junctions along the A511, including a new link road off Bardon Road and a dual carriageway between Thornborough Road and Whitwick Road.

The remaining funding will come from developer contributions as part of a funding strategy developed with North West Leicestershire District Council.

Next Tuesday (March 29), cabinet members will be asked to note the outcome of a recent consultation exercise, give the 'green light' for a planning application for the link road and authorise further work to progress the scheme.

They will also be updated on how an independent audit of the council's largest-ever Environment and Transport highways capital programme – in excess of £225million over the next four years - means the final cost of the A511 scheme could be around £15million higher than first estimated.

Councillor Ozzy O'Shea, county council cabinet member for highways and transport, said: "These are much-needed improvements to the road network around Ashby and Coalville.

"Leicestershire is growing – and we're focused on creating jobs and boosting skills.

"But we need the right infrastructure in place to manage that growth.

"And we've secured significant Department for Transport funding, despite rising costs across all big road infrastructure projects.

"The A511 has suffered from congestion for many years.

"And this scheme will not only improve traffic flow, but will also have environmental benefits as it will lead to a reduction in exhaust emissions and improve air quality.

"It will also provide us with the opportunity to improve public transport and promote walking and cycling initiatives, which will also contribute towards our commitment to make our county cleaner and greener."

Councillor Robert Ashman, deputy leader and portfolio holder for planning and infrastructure at North West Leicestershire District Council, said: "Anyone who travels on the A511 knows this is a crucial link through our district.

"It's vital that these improvements go ahead.

"The allocation of funding shows high level support for our area as it develops and grows to support residents and businesses.

"I'm looking forward to the scheme going ahead, improving connectivity for our communities."

Subject to approval of the full business case, work is scheduled to start in Spring 2024.

Cabinet will meet to discuss the report on next Tuesday at 2pm, you can view the meeting HERE.