THE start date for work to replace lighting in the centre of Salisbury has been pushed back – and it will take most of 2020 to complete.

Now starting on February 24, Highways England teams will fit new environment-friendly streetlights along the A36, from St Paul’s roundabout to Bourne roundabout.

Work will take 10 months to complete, and traffic disruption is expected. It was originally billed to start on February 3.

Highways England says the new lights will brighten up journeys as well as improve safety.

As well as this, the LED system is predicted to cost 66 per cent less to run than the old lighting and the number of light columns and lights can be significantly reduced.

A spokesperson added: “Work to renew the 44-year-old streetlighting along the A36 in Salisbury is due to start on Monday, February 24 and is expected to last for around 10 months.

“The majority of the streetlighting work will be completed at night under short sections of lane closure to have minimal impact on road users, and full closures will be required for lifting new columns into place and to allow for removal of the old lamp columns.

“To further minimise disruption to residents and motorists, Highways England will also be starting a scheme to refurbish the A36 Churchill Way railway bridge.

“The scheme involves maintenance of the rail deck, including an upgrade of the safety barrier, replacement of bridge joints, waterproofing and resurfacing, and to facilitate this work, the A36 Churchill Way will be closed overnight, from 8pm to 6am, on February 22 and 23.

“Diversion routes via the A3094 (Netherhampton Road) will be clearly signposted.

“Further closures will be required as the scheme progresses and these will be communicated in advance.”

The A36 will also be closed for a week in April and May, but a date has yet to be confirmed.