Towns and cities across the UK are set to benefit from £3 billion worth of investment on improving roads in a boost for motorists, according to new plans for the government.

It is hoped the investment will lead to quicker and safer journeys and help to build a stronger economy by linking people with jobs, businesses with customers.

Transport secretary Chris Grayling visited Cambridgeshire today to witness the start of the £1.5 billion A14 upgrade.

The new 21-mile road between Huntingdon and Cambridge will cut congestion, and improve journey times for tens of thousands of motorists.

Grayling also outlined details of more than £1.3 billion of road improvements announced as part of the Autumn Statement last week.

These include £925 million to tackle congestion and provide upgrades on local roads and £175 million to improve the 50 most dangerous roads in the country.

At the same time £220 million will be spent by the Highways England to combat congestion.

Grayling said: “This is a government that steps up, not back which is why we are investing record amounts into improving our roads across the country.

“This investment is over and above the £23 billion we are spending to get motorists to their destinations quickly, more easily and safely.

“The schemes announced today are focused on relieving congestion and providing important upgrades to ensure our roads are fit for the future - removing the barriers to help make an economy that works for everyone.”

The A14 is the 33rd major scheme that the government has started since 2010.

During that time more than £4 billion of schemes have been completed and are already providing drivers with better journeys.

Grayling added: “The A14 is a vital road for Cambridgeshire and for the rest of the country, helping link people and businesses to jobs, opportunities and families.

“This new upgrade will see quicker journeys, which will also be more reliable and safe.”

As part of the £1.3 billion fund, the government is providing £925 million which highways authorities can bid for to upgrade and repair their roads.

This is on top of the £6 billion councils are receiving up to 2021.