HUGE traffic jams are expected across Gants Hill next month when mass regeneration works begin.

The project, which is being carried out by Transport for London (TfL), will see large-scale improvements in the roundabout area, with new walkways, cycle lanes, wider pavements, extra seating, more trees, and new pedestrian crossings all being installed.

Work starts on Monday July 20, and is not expected to be completed until summer 2010.

TfL say motorists could experience delays of up to half an hour, while nine bus routes will all be diverted through July, August and the beginning of September.

Dana Skelley, TfL’s director of road network management, said: “This work will really help to bring Gants Hill town centre to life, with areas for local pedestrians and cyclists to pause and enjoy the improved environment, and better access to all sides of the busy roundabout.

“We ask motorists and other road users to bear with us while we carry out these works, which have been planned in conjunction with the local council, and we will do our best to ensure that any disruption is kept to minimum.”

The project is costing a total of £7.16m, with funds coming from TfL and the Communities and Local Government group.

The bus routes which will be diverted are: 123, 128, 150, 167, 179, 296, 396, 462 and the N8.