ROADWORKS which have shut a busy route in Weymouth have been extended for a further 15 days - leaving residents frustrated.
A section of Newstead Road has been shut since November 4 after Wessex Water said a water pipe needed replacing in the area.
The closure has meant drivers are not able to use the route to get from the Abbotsbury Road junction down towards Asda and the harbour.
READ MORE: Newstead Road, Weymouth to close for roadworks
A signed diversion goes via Westwey Road - but some drivers have been using local, minor roads.
The route was expected to reopen on December 2, but the utility company has confirmed the roadworks will now be extended until December 17.
Westham East councillor, Alex Fuhrmann said: "The work has got to be done, however I would say roadworks seem to happen around the Westham area constantly.
"I hope Dorset Council are coordinating these works so disruption is kept to a minimum and they are finished as quickly as possible.
"I've had residents contact me about the roadworks in Newstead Road and they're not happy. It's causing a knock-on effect and extra congestion in usually quieter roads such as Old Parish Lane, which is used as a rat run."
With the section of Newstead Road now shut, congestion is now a common sight along Cromwell Road, Southview Road and Old Parish Lane as motorists use the minor roads to avoid the closure.
Cllr Fuhrmann added: "December is a tricky time of year and Newstead Road is a super important route.
"It's frustrating, but it's also important Wessex Water make sure they do the job right so people have clean running water and proper facilities. We don't want to see a rushed job."
A Wessex Water spokesman said: "While we had hoped to finish this phase of work by December 2, ground conditions and the need to lay pipework around other utility services means it will take a little longer.
"The closure on Newstead Road will remain in place until Friday, December 17 and we’re writing to residents to update them.
"We’d also like to thank road users for their patience and apologise for any delays caused by this essential work."
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