A NUMBER of question and answer drop in sessions discussing the £7m M6 roadworks near Carlisle have been held.

The two-phase works, the first of which started on April 1, are expected to be completed by the end of August.

The current phase is focusing on carriageway and noise barrier works.

Sessions were held on Wednesday and last night at the Premier Inn at junction 44 on Parkhouse Road, Carlisle, with another set to take place between 10am and 5pm today.

A Highways England spokesman said: “So far, it is has had a minimal impact on motorway users.

“We’re making very good progress and it will be completed by the end of May.”

The second phase, due to start near the end of June, will focus on the roundabout at junction 44.

The spokesman added: “It’s a major improvement but we are sensitive to the fact that it’s an extremely busy junction serving businesses close by – hence the programme of drop-ins this week.

“This work will require overnight closures of the roundabout at weekends and is expected to take up to five weeks.

“We’re discussing this closely with the county council and local businesses and will make sure everyone knows what our plans are in good time.”