Overnight roadworks will begin next week on the creation of a new shared path for pedestrians and cyclists in Watford.

The shared path in Wiggenhall Road will replace a temporary cycle lane with a widened pavement.

The work, which is due to begin in the week commencing June 13, is expected to last around eight weeks and take place between the hours of 8pm and 5am.

Noisy work is planned to take place between 8pm and 11pm.

It was meant to take place in February but was postponed due to emergency gas works at the junction with Thomas Sawyer Way.

When the proposal went to public consultation, 50 out of 66 respondents supported it, with county councillor Stephen Giles-Medhurst also behind the idea.

Watford Observer: Wiggenhall Road currently. Credit: Hertfordshire County CouncilWiggenhall Road currently. Credit: Hertfordshire County Council

The scheme is being delivered by Hertfordshire County Council and funded by the Department for Transport.

The council has been awarded £9 million by the Government to spend on projects making it easier and safer for people who cycle and walk.

The eight-week work will also involve the widening of the existing pedestrian crossing at the bridge over the River Colne and resurfacing of the pavement on the eastern side of the road.

Access is to also be improved around the entrance and exit to Oxhey Activity Park.

Watford Observer: CGI of the proposed scheme for Wiggenhall Road. Credit: Hertfordshire County CouncilCGI of the proposed scheme for Wiggenhall Road. Credit: Hertfordshire County Council

A CGI of the planned shared cycleway and footpath

Cllr Phil Bibby, cabinet member for highways and transport at the county council, said: “Following the public consultation last year, a commitment was made to progress with the design of the Wiggenhall Road scheme. I’m delighted that work on this project is now ready to be implemented.

“Our aim is to offer all residents a cleaner, greener, healthier Hertfordshire. By increasing access to walking and cycling initiatives, we'll help to improve health, air quality, road safety and reduce traffic congestion.”

Watford mayor Peter Taylor added: “We are committed to achieving carbon net-zero by 2030 and active travel is a vital part of achieving that target.

"We have seen a huge number of people get involved with our bike-share scheme over the last couple of years, showing there’s plenty of appetite for cycling in the borough.

“The works at Wiggenhall Road will play an important role in giving people the option to walk and cycle around Watford.”