TWO months of roadworks are underway in a north Herefordshire market town as roads are prepared to become an approved route for heavy goods vehicles.

This will mean a 7.5 tonne weight-limit can come into force in Bromyard town centre, making it "more pedestrian friendly" and to try and avoid vehicles striking buildings.

The work, which started on Monday (January 20) and should be completed on March 13, will see Station Road improved for use by heavy goods vehicles.

Until February 14, Station Road will be closed between the Church Lane junction and the B4203 junction near Broadbridge.

Work underneath the bridge will include removing the existing traffic calming measures underneath the bridge.

Multi-way traffic lights will be in place from Monday, February 17 to Friday, March 13 as the junction of Station Road and the B4214 Tenbury Road is upgraded.

Once work is complete, a weight limit will come into force in the town centre, as well as Winslow Road, Old Road and New Road.

A Herefordshire Council spokesperson said: "Station Road was identified as the preferred HGV route for Bromyard during a study carried out three years ago.

"The study was prompted by a number of incidents which involved large vehicles striking buildings on roads in the town centre.

"A formal Traffic Regulation Order request to establish the route and implement an HGV restriction in the town centre was submitted and, following a consultation period, this has now been approved.

"Works to improve the highway are being undertaken ahead of the formal adoption of the HGV route in March, when there will be a 7.5 tonne weight limit in place in the town centre, making the centre more pedestrian friendly with fewer large vehicles passing through."

In the past HGVs have become stuck on Cruxwell Street.