Tens of thousands of people across Lincoln and Lincolnshire are set to benefit from faster journeys, after the government confirmed funding for the North Hykeham Relief Road.

Work will begin next month with the brand-new dual carriageway between the A46 and A15, backed by more than £110m in government funding, supporting the delivery of 4,500 homes around Lincoln.

The link road project, costing £200m, will open up new job opportunities through improved connections into Lincoln, reduce congestion in surrounding villages and improve road safety. The project will also give people more options to travel with safe cycling and walking provisions built into the scheme.

Roads and buses minister, Simon Lightwood, said: “Roads are a key link for communities, boosting access to opportunities and jobs, which is why I am delighted to confirm funding for this project.

“We’re putting our money where our mouth is, with a £110m investment that will mean faster journeys and less congestion. I look forward to seeing how it will transform Lincolnshire moving forward.”

First proposed in the mid-2000s, the relief road has long been anticipated, with the Department for Transport’s confirmation of funding ensuring drivers can enjoy the new road as soon as possible.

Spades in the ground to kick off work on the project will begin in the middle of March, with an expected completion date of May 2029.

Sean Matthews, leader of Lincolnshire County Council, said: “This is a huge milestone for the project. We’ve now cleared the final hurdle of getting the final piece of Lincoln’s ring road built. Now that all funding for the scheme is in place, our focus will be on making sure Balfour Beatty is ready to hit the ground running ahead of breaking ground in March.

“This road will offer huge economic benefits when it’s finished, including opening up land for 4,500 homes and 7 hectares of employment space. It will also contribute £800 million in economic benefits for the county over the next 60 years, which is a massive amount.”

The government have the go-ahead to the North Hykeham Road, which is expected to cost between £203m and £218m, in November 20205. It will form the final section of Lincoln’s ring road.