Work on a multi-million pound renewal of a 1970s flyover could begin early next year.

Transport for London (TfL) documents reveal that construction at Gallows Corner flyover is scheduled to start in March 2025.

However, this is dependent on the Department for Transport (DfT) approving final plans for the £57.3 million refurbishment.

The full business case for the works is yet to be finalised, but is still expected to be submitted for approval by the end of this year, TfL has confirmed.

Constructed in 1970 as a “temporary” structure, the flyover, which carries 20,000 vehicles a day along the A127, has undergone a succession of renovations over the last two decades.

But in recent years, TfL has warned that without financial support from the government for further works, the flyover would be “at risk of closure” due to its age.

The government approved an outline business case for the project in May, but funding can only be unlocked once the final plans are approved.

Under current proposals, the flyover would be refurbished and strengthened, rather than replaced.

The design will see the existing foundations remain and the old road surface replaced.

This scheme is preferred as its carbon impact is 30 per cent that of a replacement flyover, TfL has said.

Consultancy firm Pell Frischmann has confirmed that it is working with engineers at Costain to carry out the design and construction of the refurbished flyover.

The new structure is expected to have a minimum design life of 60 years, with the existing steelwork strengthened and repainted.

TfL has said it is still working with “key stakeholders” to agree the construction and traffic management methodology for the project.

When the designs were first revealed earlier this year, Romford MP Andrew Rosindell branded them a “sticking plaster solution”.

He also claimed that the proposals do not address the “fundamental issues of congestion and safety”.

David Rowe, TfL's director of investment delivery planning, said: “We’re working hard to secure the funding needed for Gallows Corner, which was built in the 1970s and is in urgent need of major repairs. 

“We have assessed all options for its renewal thoroughly and are moving forwards with plans for a scheme that will refurbish and strengthen the flyover using the latest materials.”