Roadworks due to take place near two schools will cause “absolute chaos”, according to a councillor.

Work will begin on Monday on a section of Mobbsbury Way in Stevenage to widen the junction exiting on to Fairlands Way to allow for cars to turn left and right in separate lanes – in the hope to reduce congestion.

The junction will be closed off with a diversion route put in place for an estimated eight weeks, with staff at the nearby Nobel School encouraging students to walk or cycle to school while the works are carried out. Lodge Farm Primary School is also situated nearby.

Cllr Robin Parker, who represents the Manor ward, said: “This will be an improvement but it should have been done years ago. I would prefer to see a mini-roundabout installed but this is the best Hertfordshire County Council is willing to offer. It will be absolulte chaos around there for a while.”