FINAL approval for roadworks at two major North Oxford junctions is expected to be given this morning.

Oxfordshire County Council has proposed the £9m overhaul of Wolvercote and Cutteslowe roundabouts to improve traffic flows.

It would see traffic lights installed at both, with approaches widened and new pedestrian and cycle crossings added.

And if council cabinet member for transport David Nimmo Smith approves the plans, work could run from June to February next year.

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Mr Nimmo Smith has also been recommended by officers to reduce the speed limits on roads approaching both junctions.

The existing 30mph limit on the A44 approaching Wolvercote Roundabout would be extended further north and the 60mph limit on the A40 to the west would be lowered to 40mph, deputy director for environment and economy Mark Kemp wrote.

And a 50mph speed limit on Elsfield Way east of Cutteslowe roundabout would be cut to 40mph.

The 40mph limit on Sunderland Avenue, between the two roundabouts, would be cut to 30mph.

The council said Thames Valley Police had raised objections to the change on Sunderland Avenue, because the proposals would “do little to naturally reduce speeds”.

But Mr Kemp said the reduction was needed because road markings were to be changed to include an additional eastbound lane.

This would mean the lanes would be narrower than previously, he said.

“Reduced speeds will be of benefit,” he added.

A decision on the changes will be made in a meeting at County Hall, at 10.30am.