ROADWORKS on the M5 in Worcestershire will not be finished until this time next year.

Highways England is working to replace the central safety barriers on the M5 between Junction 6, Worcester north,  and 7, Worcester South.

The work, which began in February this year, has caused chaos for drivers with the central two lanes coned off and speed limits reduced to 50mph despite work seemingly not taking place.

According to Highways England, the work is not set to be completed until Spring 2023, meaning potentially another 12 months of delays for drivers.

£15 million is being spent on the work, which also includes work to improve the surface and drainage for the work.

In its work bulletin, the organisation said: "To reduce disruption to customers, most of our work will be carried out under narrow lanes which will ensure the M5 remains open.

"For added safety, a 50mph speed limit will be in place, along with speed enforcement and free recovery.

"This has been designed to protect both the road user and workforce on site."

Last week, a broken down car caused heavy traffic delays on the M5 between Droitwich and Worcester.

The car had to be moved into the coned-off right hand lane, adding to the already congested traffic.

The work is being done to remove the existing steel crash barriers and replace them with a solid concrete wall.

According to Highways, the high-impact absorption design of concrete barriers significantly reduces the risk of vehicles colliding with traffic travelling on the opposite side of the road.

By replacing the existing steel restraint in the central reservation the need for routine maintenance will decrease too, they said.

Highways England's bulletin added: "This will ensure we continue to provide a safer road to all road users. Our work will also include lighting and drainage improvements.

"Our work is subject to change due to any unforeseen circumstances. Please plan ahead and allow additional time for your journey.

"We’d also encourage drivers to stick to speed limits and follow appropriate signage to ensure the safety of those working on site and fellow road users. 

"We will do our very best to complete the work as quickly as possible, keeping disturbances and noise to a minimum."