MOTORISTS on the A34 this morning witnessed the beginning of roadworks that will last for two years.

Delays are expected due to the replacement of the Wolvercote Viaduct, which carries the A34 Western Bypass over the Oxford Canal, A40 to Cheltenham and the main railway line to Birmingham.

Yesterday marked the beginning of the construction of a temporary bridge to the east of the A34, which will be used to keep traffic flowing while the existing viaduct is replaced.

The work will involve some night closures of the A40 and narrowing of lanes on the A34.

Roger Jones, of the Highways Agency, said: "Everything is on schedule with no real problems, but last night we experienced for the first time two lanes south of the viaduct narrowed and reduced to 40mph.

"Speed cameras are not yet in place."