MOTORISTS have been braced for more traffic delays on a key route into Malmesbury while work on a new housing estate commences.

Temporary traffic lights have been put up on the busy B4014 in Malmesbury to allow for work to start on developer Bloor Homes' brand-new Avon Rise development in Malmesbury which was approved in December. 

Once finished, 132 new homes will be built across two fields located in the Filands neighbourhood, to the northeast of Malmesbury.

Wiltshire Council has confirmed that these traffic lights will be up until Friday, February 23 while a new entrance into the development site is built. 

Cllr Caroline Thomas, cabinet member for transport at Wiltshire Council, said: “As requested by Bloor Homes, temporary traffic lights are in place on the B4014 in Malmesbury, near to the new Filands development. 

"The temporary lights, due to be in place until February 23, will allow for construction of a new entrance into the development site and other associated works."

However, the traffic lights have been causing delays for commuters driving in and out of the historic market town on a daily basis.

Many residents in the area have expressed their frustration about the congestion on social media as lines of cars queue down the road during rush hour.

Others have raised concerns about the impact more cars from the new housing estate will have on the busy road.

Land on the site has been safeguarded for a new nursery and some residents are worried that this will make Malmesbury even more congested during school pick up times.

Bloor Homes has confirmed that 53 affordable homes are currently being built on the site and will be available to buy this summer.

A spokesperson from Bloor Homes said: “Initial works have commenced for our new Avon Rise development in Malmesbury, with a first phase of 79 new homes for sale and 53 affordable homes under way and people will be able to register online for information this summer.

"Further works are planned to allow for the completion of the Section 278 improvement works - widening of the carriageway, kerbing, surfacing and lining, all of which will take place on phases over the coming months to minimise disruption as far as possible.”