Works around St Johns junction in Warwick which started last year remain on track, Warwickshire County Council has said.

The major highways scheme began in October and has seen traffic lights around the junction for much of the time since.

The local authority has this week confirmed the works are still due to be finished in May.

Completed works include new footpaths and slabs outside the shops and along Priory Road.

The council said these will "enhance pedestrian and wheeling and cycling access to the town centre".

Other footpaths still need resurfacing. Works on the central islands between St Nicholas Church Street and Priory Road - which will include planting and other "public realm improvements" continue.

The St Johns central area still needs resurfacing, the parking spaces need reconfiguring and, upgrades to traffic signals and resurfacing of the vehicle carriageway at all arms of the junction are also to be completed.

WCC said "exceptionally high levels of rainfall in January" caused problems in laying and setting the slabs.

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Contractors also needed to delay some works to accommodate public and business needs, "all of which are important considerations with a scheme such as this," the council said.

Cllr Jennifer Warren, portfolio holder for transport and planning, said: "The area around St Johns is an important gateway to Warwick and sets the tone for those coming in from Leamington; a town's appeal is not confined to the town centre but also to the approach. 

"On top of that, there is a vibrant community in that area and they deserve good access to shops and to have a choice in how they get to them while the businesses, too, will benefit from the improved access and enhanced look of the area.

"Although the scheme is taking slightly longer than we had initially envisaged, we are still pleased with the schedule.

"There were pauses to the works, in agreement with businesses and local groups to accommodate them.

"That showed a pragmatism and flexibility that was appreciated and a reflection on our commitment to listen and to work towards what suits local stakeholders best."