The end is in sight for motorists tired of major roadworks on the A69 as the scheme enters the home stretch.
A Highways England project to transform the Bridge End roundabout at Hexham is continuing apace and on schedule.
The major overhaul is designed to slash congestion on the busy route, which connects the North East and Cumbria, and boost trade between the two regions.
Works are causing problems for drivers now but the agency say the disruption will be well worth it in the long run for long-distance users and Hexham residents alike.
The project has moved into its second phase, which is estimated to last 12 months, but the route will be open to traffic before then.
Highways England say works are on schedule and, while some finishing touches will continue beyond the reopening, the route will be operating as normal by spring 2021.
It was originally planned as part of a £30m package along with works at the Styford roundabout near Corbridge but that part of the scheme is under review.
A Highway England spokesperson said: "We have completed the mainline carriageway and drainage work either side of the existing roundabout.
"We have made the temporary turnarounds to create an extended junction to minimise disruption to customers.
"This will allow us to begin the excavation of the roundabout and build the two new bridges over the new A69 carriageway underneath the roundabout.
"The next phase, lasting 12 months, will see the original roundabout closed to traffic, with the newly-constructed turnarounds being used instead to allow vehicles in and out of Hexham. The turnarounds on the Eastern and Western sides came into operation earlier this month.
"After listening to feedback we have upgraded the signage for the new layout to improve visibility and awareness of the changes.
"We have added new white lining to both carriageways and rumble strips to inform of the new layout."
