TRANSPORT bosses claim the securing of £8 million in funding for the upgrade of a notorious junction in Finchley is vital in helping smooth traffic flow.

It was announced on Tuesday that the cash to improve Henlys Corner will remain in place and work on the project would begin early next year.

Funding had been at risk of being pulled under the ConDem Government's comprehensive spending review, but the Mayor of London, Boris Johnson, has now come out saying Transport for London (TfL) is committed to delivering the improvements.

New right turn filter lanes will be installed on most arms of the junction, which joins Regents Park Road, Finchley Road and the A406 North Circular Road, close to the A1 turn offs.

Signalled controlled crossings will also be installed to make it safer for pedestrians and cyclists.

Kulveer Ranger, the Mayor's transport adviser, said: "I am sure that people living and working in Barnet will breathe a sigh of relief that this busy junction is getting the much-needed improvements they have asked for.

“We will continue to work with boroughs to make these improvements whilst taking into account the tough financial times in which we are living."

Councillors and Finchley and Golders Green MP, Mike Freer, have welcomed the green light for the scheme, which was first agreed and presented to the public in April last year.

TfL said preparatory work is set to begin early next year, with the main work starting in the Spring. Contrary to earlier reports, the project could take up to 12 months to complete.

David Brown, managing director for surface transport at TfL, said: “We are really pleased that we can continue to fund the improvement works to Henlys Corner, and that the Mayor has made this a priority.

“These important works will bring huge benefits to all road users along the A406 North Circular Road, and deliver smoother traffic flow along this key arterial route.”