National Highways is helping delivery firms this Black Friday and Cyber Monday by lifting and completing 394 miles of roadworks.

Almost 98% of England’s major A-roads and motorway network will be free from roadworks between 8pm on Sunday (November 28), through to 6am on Friday (December 3).

With many orders being processed after Black Friday (November 26), the removal of roadworks on major routes coincides with expected delivery dates to customers.

National Highways customer services director, Melanie Clarke, said: “We know that many people will be purchasing goods on both Black Friday and Cyber Monday and that’s why we’re doing our bit to help.

“We’ve worked hard to lift and complete as many roadworks as it’s safe to do so to help make journeys as smooth as possible and that’s why we’re keeping around 98% of the road network we manage free from roadworks.”

The removal of roadworks has been welcomed by the haulage sector. Mark O’Doherty, director UK Linehaul at DHL Express UK, said: “At this exceptionally busy time, we welcome the suspension of almost 400 miles of roadworks to support us in keeping our network running efficiently, enabling swift delivery for our customers.

“This approach is something we would like to see more often going forward.”

Natalie Chapman, head of policy for the south at Logistics UK, said: “For the logistics sector, the run up to Christmas is always our busiest trading period.

“After such a challenging year, the removal of roadworks, and the delays they can cause – which can slow the passage of vehicles and the goods they are transporting to their destination – is much appreciated and will provide much needed reassurance for our sector.”