MULTI-MILLION pound improvements to the A13 and M25 junction will start early next year.

Under the plans, the A13 through the junction will be widened to four lanes in each direction, and slip roads to and from the M25 will be improved.

The work will be carried out by Balfour Beatty and Skanska, the Highways Agency announced today.

The £55m contract award for the construction phase of the project paves the way for work to start early next year.

Highways Agency project manager Lizzie Pauling said: “Appointing a contractor is an important step in making this vital upgrade a reality. Improving this busy junction will deliver real benefits for the many thousands of drivers who use it every day, and help unlock multi-billion pound regeneration for the Lower Thames Valley.

“I’m looking forward to working with Balfour Beatty Skanksa to deliver these vital improvements in the best way for drivers.”

Skanska JV Board member, Glennan Blackmore, said: “The Balfour Beatty Skanska joint venture has a proven track record for delivering schemes to the highest quality, with environmental sensitivity and often ahead of schedule. “We are delighted to have secured this new, high profile contract and we look forward to making a tangibly positive difference to those who use this junction and the roads around it.”

The M25 Junction 30/A13 corridor directly serves the Port of Tilbury and is a key entry point to Thurrock and South Essex, but currently suffers from significant congestion, especially at peak times.

The project will support the Government’s National Infrastructure plan, and is part of the biggest investment in roads since the 1970s. Funding was announced in the 2012 Autumn Statement, with a commitment that work would start before March 2015.

Preliminary work on the project is already underway. A 50mph speed limit, enforced by average speed cameras, will come into effect on Tuesday, January 5. Main construction is expected to start early next year and to be completed by 2017.