A BID to build new slip roads onto the A120 at Braintree to relieve congestion has been handed £4.95 million in government funding.

The Department for Transport announced a £345.3 million funding package to improve roads and public transport across the country today.

Among the 76 projects is £4.95 million for two new slip roads onto the A120 at Millenium Way in Braintree.

There is also £4.09 million for extra lanes and signals to A120 roundabout to west of M11 junction 8 to improve flow.

The Millennium Way project aims to give much-needed relief to the notorious pinch-point at Galleys Corner.

The scheme will also provide better access to Freeport Shopping Village.

It is being part funded by Braintree District Council, Highways England and Essex County Council.

In total it is expected to cost £13.95 million to complete.

Lynette Bowers-Flint, Cabinet Member for Planning and Housing at Braintree District Council, said: “We’re delighted that the Department for Transport is supporting the Millennium Slip roads project with almost £5m of funding. The close partnership between us, Highways England and Essex County Council has been critical in this successful funding bid and will continue throughout the scheme design and construction.

“The project will address capacity issues affecting the road network around Braintree now and in the future and provide much needed congestion relief and free up capacity at Galleys Corner.”

Braintree MP James Cleverly said on Facebook: “I'm really pleased that the government has agreed a £5 million investment in the A120 at the SE of Braintree.

“This is part of the £350 million investment in local road improvements. The money will be supplemented by funds from Essex County Council & Braintree District Council.

“I will still push for the major investment in the A120 that I have been campaigning for since I was first elected but this is a good step in the right direction.”

Kevin Bentley, Deputy Leader for Essex County Council, said: “This funding will give a huge boost to regional economic growth along what are key routes for so many people who travel in and around Essex.

“Investment in roads infrastructure is vital to regional economic growth and I am delighted the Government is recognising the importance of investing in Essex by contributing this funding to help make these essential upgrades a reality.

“This funding will change the lives of thousands of people not only in Essex, but across the country.”