ROADWORKS on a busy Weymouth road will overrun by a week, the utility company behind the project has announced - as bosses apologised to drivers for the ongoing disruption and delays.
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 carry out work on the second phase of replacing a leaking water pipe.
A three-way signal system was being installed today.
Wessex Water had previously said the repairs would be completed by February 11.
However, due to supply issues, the completion of the water main replacement work is now expected to conclude on Friday, February 18.
The route is a busy one linking Abbotsbury Road and the area towards Asda, Boot Hill and the harbourside.
The first phase of work in Newstead Road took place in November and December and saw the road closed from Knightsdale Road junction up to Abbotsbury Road. That work overran by 15 days.
The official diversion route for the first phase 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 saying they were 'not happy' that it caused a 'knock-on effect and extra congestion in usually quieter roads'.
A Wessex Water spokesman said: "Unfortunately, supply issues mean the completion of the water main replacement work in Newstead Road has been put back by a week.
"We're grateful for the co-operation of the local authority and construction team in agreeing this short extension to the original schedule that will still enable the scheme to be finished before the school half-term break.
"The two-way traffic lights currently in place will become three-way signals on the junction of Marsh Road from Wednesday (January 26). They will move to the junction of Granville Road between 14-18 February to allow for the safe completion of the work.
"We apologise for any traffic delays caused by this essential work, which is to replace water mains that are prone to leaks and bursts, meaning improved water quality and a more reliable supply."
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereLast Updated:
Report this comment Cancel