IT’S one of the most notoriously bad roads in Basingstoke – but now the long-awaited reconstruction of The Avenue at Park Prewett will begin on Monday.

Taylor Wimpey, which is building new homes at the nearby Limes Park development, is funding the work, which is expected to last 17 weeks.

The project – the cost of which has not been made public – includes the reconstruction of the existing road, improved drainage, a new footpath and traffic-calming measures along with street lighting and signage.

The road, which runs alongside Basingstoke hospital, will be closed to through traffic, but access to the hospital via the main entrance and Dinwoodie Drive will be maintained.

However, access for hospital visitors and staff will be from the A340 Aldermaston Road or from the Limes Park estate, depending on what stage the work is at.

A Taylor Wimpey spokesman said: “We are pleased to announce that this long-awaited reconstruction work to bring The Avenue up to adoptable standards is to start.

"Once complete, the new road will be a vast improvement both for residents and those visiting or working at the hospital – and we hope that people will bear with the temporary inconvenience associated with the work with a view to the long-term benefits it will bring.”

Mary Edwards, chief executive of Hampshire Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, which runs Basingstoke hospital, said: “I am pleased Taylor Wimpey is improving the road – it will be much better for everyone.

“Although the contractors have planned the work carefully, we know it will cause some disruption for staff and visitors.

“I thank drivers for their patience during the work and ask that people allow extra time or consider alternative transport.”

The project is the first phase of major highway works in the area. In 2015, Hampshire County Council plan to start a major improvement scheme to widen the A340 Aldermaston Road, and install new traffic signals at the Lodge Junction.