The next phase of work on a controversial £4m revamp of one of Norwich's busiest roads is about to start - amid claims the project is a waste of money will increase, rather than cut, congestion.

Under Norfolk County Council's plans, major changes are being made to Dereham Road, with new bus and cycle lanes, wider pavements and crossings.

Eastern Daily Press: Dereham Road, on the edge of NorwichDereham Road, on the edge of Norwich

But Mike Sands, Labour county and city councillor for Bowthorpe, who has long-criticised the scheme, said he was still against elements of it.

He said: "I am still totally opposed, and represent a majority local view here, to the bus lane from Gurney Lane along Dereham Road out of the city in the right-hand lane and the bus lane into the city toward Gurney Lane.

"I am also opposed to the cut through the central reservation and to the side reservation to Three Mile Lane with associated traffic lights.

"This will cause major congestion both ways between the Wendene roundabout at Gurney Lane."

Eastern Daily Press: Mike Sands, city and county councillor for BowthorpeMike Sands, city and county councillor for Bowthorpe (Image: Norfolk Labour Party)

However, council leaders insist the scheme, paid for using a slice of the £32m Transforming Cities Fund money awarded to the county council by the Department for Transport for a string of schemes in and around Norwich, would help improve bus journey times.

Eastern Daily Press: Graham Plant, Norfolk County Council cabinet member for highways, infrastructure and transportGraham Plant, Norfolk County Council cabinet member for highways, infrastructure and transport (Image: Newsquest)

Graham Plant, Conservative cabinet member for highways, transport and infrastructure, said: "Dereham Road is a key transport corridor linking existing and future housing, employment and schools with the city centre.

"The scheme will deliver the benefits we promised, providing shorter and more consistent journey times for buses while creating a safer environment for those walking or cycling."

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Work to put in a new crossing at the junction of Dereham Road and Richmond Road began earlier this summer.

The installation of new bus lanes between Longwater Lane and Gurney Road, is due to begin soon.

It will be done in two stages, with work between Longwater Lane and Grays Fair to start towards the end of this month, due to be finished before Christmas.

The rest of the work, between Grays Fair and the Gurney Road junction, will start in January.