A UTILITY company has apologised for traffic delays along a busy route in Weymouth - but has said work is expected to completed on time.
A two-way temporary traffic light system has been in place in Newstead Road, between the Rodwell Trail bridge up to the Marsh Road junction, since January 4 to allow Wessex Water to continue work on the second phase of replacing a leaking water pipe.
The route is a busy one linking Abbotsbury Road and the area down towards Asda, Boot Hill and the harbourside.
READ MORE: Month-long roadworks start on Newstead Road
It comes following the first phase of roadworks in Newstead Road in November and into part of December, which saw the road closed from Knightsdale Road junction up to Abbotsbury Road. That work overran by 15 days.
The official diversion route was via Westwey Road but some drivers bypassed the closure by using rat-runs around parts of Westham.
Speaking in November, Westham East councillor, Alex Fuhrmann said residents contacted him about the roadworks in Newstead Road and they were 'not happy' that it caused a 'knock-on effect and extra congestion in usually quieter roads'.
READ MORE: Roadworks on Newstead Road, Weymouth to be extended
However, the utility company said it does not expect any further delays for the second phase of work, which will be finished - as planned - on February 11.
A Wessex Water spokesman said: "This project is to replace water mains that are prone to leaks and bursts, meaning improved water quality and a more reliable supply.
"Temporary two-way traffic lights are in use for the safety of road users and our workforce.
"We’re sorry for any traffic delays caused by this essential work, which finishes on 11 February."
Currently, roadside workers are on site during the daytime, while the two-way traffic system remains in place both during the day and night-time.
Signage has been placed along the section of Newstead Road indicating the pathway under the Rodwell Trail bridge, on the left heading towards Abbotsbury Road, is closed.
Motorists are being asked to remain patient as delays to their travel time are likely.
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