Speed limits are to be cut along sections of a major Sussex road in order to improve safety for motorists and pedestrians.

The new limits will come into force on parts of the A27 at Firle, near Lewes, and at Polegate.

The decision to introduce the cut was made following a review by the Highways Agency.

Motorists could face delays when works start next week to install new speed signs.

At Firle the speed limit will come down from 60mph to 50mph between the Firle Road junction and Selmeston.

The new limit will be reviewed during the next 18 months.

At Polegate a reduction in the speed limit from 50mph to 40mph will include the junction with Gainsborough Lane, near the A22.

The new limits will operate once signs have been put up at the two locations.

Overnight work starts on August 24 and is expected to last two weeks. It will take place between 8pm and 6am Monday to Friday.

While the work is carried out there will be lane closures on one carriageway at a time controlled by two-way temporary traffic lights.

The changes were agreed after consultation between the Highways Agency, Sussex Police and East Sussex County Council.

Martin Wright, the agency's route performance manager, said: "The lower speed limits on the A27 will improve safety for road users and pedestrians.

"The work to install the new signs will be carried out overnight to keep delays to road users to a minimum."

Earlier this week The Argus reported that speed limits could be cut on roads across the county to try to reduce fatal accidents.

Both East Sussex and West Sussex county councils are considering reducing limits on single-lane roads from 60mph to 50mph.

The move could make Sussex the first area in the country to impose reduced speeds on all roads with national speed limits.

Every village and parish is to be asked whether it wants limits reduced.

Last year 78 people died on roads in Sussex. From January to June this year 30 people lost their lives.