Work to install speed cameras and a new 60mph limit on the A1 between Buckden and Southoe is expected to start next week.

Signs warning of roadworks on the stretch south of the Buckden roundabout from February 17 went up this month.

The Highways Agency has today (Thursday) confirmed that the work will go ahead. Steve Davy, an HA project manager, said: “We are aware that there have been concerns about safety along this stretch of road and we are pleased to be able to start work here next week.

“The introduction of further safety measures along this stretch of the A1 are designed to reduce the number of incidents and so improve the reliability of journeys.”

Fiona Shirley, chairman of the A1 Safety Advisory Group, which has been campaigning for safety improvements on the dual carriageway for years, said: “They were due to start about now. At the last A1 meeting they were hoping to get the work finished by early April.”

Following the lengthy campaign by residents, the HA announced in June last year that it had secured funding to put up speed cameras between Buckden roundabout and 300m south of Lees Lane, Southoe.

Speaking at the time, David Abbott, an HA asset manager, said it was hoped the new measures would address concerns about traffic speeding through Buckden, Diddington and Southoe, making it difficult for residents manoeuvring in and out of the villages onto the A1.

Mrs Shirley added: “It will be good to keep the speed down, particularly around the Southoe bends and Diddington.

“Hopefully it will keep the flow of traffic at Buckden roundabout but that remains to be seen. The parish council and the advisory group will be looking at the consequences with interest.”