ROADWORKS causing major disruption at one of the gateways to Southampton are set to finish a week before Christmas.

More than 18 months of chaos will end on Friday, when lane closures and other traffic management measures on the Redbridge roundabout will finally be lifted.

Highways England has confirmed that the scheme - expected to cost about £14m - is due to be completed on December 18.

It means drivers heading into Southampton on the M271 will no longer face the prospect of long tailbacks on the approach to the roundabout.

Campaigners are hoping the end of the roadworks will give struggling city centre traders a major boost on the last shopping weekend before Christmas.

Giles Semper, chief executive of GO! Southampton, said: "It’s a pleasure - and a relief - to hear that the Redbridge roundabout works are complete and that the road will reopen.

"We hope this means people choose Southampton for those vital last-minute presents and for a ‘bubbled’ Christmas meal out."

County councillor David Harrison, who represents neighbouring Totton, added: "Completing the works just before Christmas is a great piece of timing.

"My personal thanks to the whole team involved in the project. It could not have been easy to keep traffic flowing whilst undertaking all the work in a safe manner."

Southampton Itchen MP Royston Smith also welcomed the end of the chaos caused by the scheme.

He said: “This is really good news. I know how frustrating it has been for drivers so it will come as a great relief."

The scheme began in May last year and was originally due to finish in the spring.

Contractors have added a dedicated left-turn lane for drivers exiting the M271 on their way to the city centre and the docks.

Pedestrian crossings on Redbridge Road have been upgraded and a footbridge has been replaced. The scheme also includes subway improvements and a shared-use path for pedestrians and cyclists on the southern side of the roundabout.

Redbridge councillor Lee Whitbread said: "I’m absolutely delighted the work is drawing to an end.

"Whilst the work has caused disruption, I’m pleased to see the new pedestrian footbridge and improvements to the subway linking the roundabout to Old Redbridge Village."

Southampton Test MP Alan Whitehead added: "It's great this work is coming to a close.

"There may have been some inconvenience whilst the work was ongoing. However, I'm hoping this upgrade will make journeys in the area smoother from now on."