Traffic lights will be added to both of the Bagshot Road approaches to the Bracknell Leisure Centre roundabout as part of an improvement scheme by Bracknell Forest Council next month.

Traffic lights were added to the Horse and Groom roundabout in 2012 and there are plans to replace the Coral Reef roundabout with a four-way crossroads operated by lights.

Residents have criticised the plan to add lights at the leisure centre roundabout, with about 70 people commenting on the News’s Facebook page.

Some question whether the improvements are needed and that adding traffic lights defeats the purpose of roundabouts.

Mike Sankey said: “The funny thing with roundabouts is that they are designed to work without traffic lights.” Amy Barnes added: “You’ve got to be kidding! That’s not going to help, the lights won’t be phased right and Bracknell will become awful! Why don’t they ask the public before deciding to do this!” Dave Norton said: “Just leave the roundabouts alone. Let them do what they were designed for. Stop wasting money.” Cllr Chris Turrell, executive member for planning and transport, said: “The work we are undertaking at the sports centre roundabout in November and next year at the Coral Reef junction will follow the successful works at Twin Bridges and the Horse and Groom roundabout.

“The existing roundabout at Coral Reef will not be capable of accommodating the future demands placed on it unless the junction is improved. The scheme will reduce congestion and improve travel through the borough and beyond in the years to come.” The works, which will start early every month, are due to take about six weeks to complete, and off-peak lane closures will be in place during the works between 9.30am-4pm Monday to Friday. If weather conditions slow the progress of the works, maintenance may take place on Saturdays also to ensure it is completed on time.

Minor adjustments to the junction layout will also be made.

The improvements are part of the continuing upgrade of the A322 – the borough’s busiest transport corridor between the M3 and M4, with the scheme being funded by a £7m government grant via the Thames Valley Local Enterprise Partnership (LEP).

The LEP grant will also fund the transformation of the Coral Reef roundabout, with those plans also receiving a furious backlash from both motorists and residents as the council plans to replace it with a four-way traffic light-controlled crossroads.

A link road in Warfield is also earmarked, as well as improvements to the Martin’s Heron roundabout in London Road, with all three schemes due for completion between 2016-2019.