A major scheme began in October, 2006 to build a link road between the end of the M56 and Deeside Industrial Estate to ease congestion problems between Cheshire and North Wales.

For nearly two years, motorists have faced changes in layout, delays and road closures, the latest being a diversion from the A550 onto the Deeside Industrial Estate roundabout for drivers travelling towards Birkenhead, which has caused widespread confusion.

The Highways Agency, which is spearheading the £55 million project, is hoping to have the work completed by the end of the year.

When they are complete, there will be a direct link road from the M56 to the A494 at Drome Corner and a fly-over to Deeside Industrial Park.

The five-kilometre dual carriageway will include two new two-level junctions to replace the roundabouts and traffic lights at the Parkgate Junction (A5117/A540) and Woodbank Junction (A5117/A550).

Other changes include the recently built Parkgate Bridge, which is expected to improve journeys for motorists travelling to Chester and new diversions to direct farm vehicles away from the main carriageways.

Stephen Greenhalgh, Highways Agency project manager, said: "We anticipate we will be opening more parts of the carriageway later on in September, so cars travelling into Wales will be directed into the new carriageway under the A540 bridge.

"Motorists travelling out of Wales will be transferred onto the brand new carriageway in mid-November and we are hoping that all parts of the new road will be in use by the end of November.

"The scheme is expected to be completed by the end of December and we are pleased with the progress so far."