More than 900 miles of roadworks are going to be lifted in the coming days as part of efforts to ease Christmas getaway traffic.

National Highways says work on both motorways and major A-roads will be removed to help keep traffic flowing.

The AA issued a warning last week that traffic levels may soar to pre-pandemic levels as families try and make up for the plans cancelled last year.

President Edmund King said motorists should prepare for 'bumper-to-bumper' travel ahead of the festive season with Saturday, December 18, Thursday, December 23 and Christmas Eve likely to be among the busiest days for travel as people finish Christmas shopping or take to the roads to visit relatives.

To alleviate problems, Highways staff say they will begin freeing up major routes from Tuesday, December 21, which will mean nearly 98% of motorways and A roads will be roadworks-free in time for those travelling to see loved ones or making other journeys for Christmas.

To help keep festive disruption to a minimum National Highways plans to keep the roads as free as possible from work until Tuesday, January 4 when it is expected most people will return to work or school.

National Highways customer service director, Melanie Clarke said: “We don’t want roadworks to spoil Christmas so we’re doing everything we can to make journeys as smooth as possible; that’s why we’re keeping almost 98 per cent of the road network we manage free from roadworks.

“We know from experience that peak travel times can vary in the run up to Christmas, and so we’re encouraging drivers to check traffic conditions before heading out to help keep traffic flowing."

Echoing a previous request from the AA, National Highways is also asking drivers to check their fuel levels, tyre conditions, engine oil levels, water and lights before setting off, saying that 'almost half' of all breakdowns can be avoided if motorists carried out basic checks before beginning their journeys.

National Highways has advice about traffic conditions live on its website, Twitter feeds, and via its information line 0300 123 5000.