Drivers are being warned of more disruption this summer as part of a main road in Weymouth will be closed - for TWO MONTHS.

From Monday, May 15 to Friday, July 21, Dorchester Road near the Morrisons supermarket - between its junction with Roman Close and the Manor Roundabout - will be closed in the northbound direction so SGN can replace 200 metres of gas main.

Although Morrisons will remain open as usual, drivers will only be able to access it from the Manor roundabout (southbound) only. And when drivers leave the car park, they will only be able to turn left (southbound).

SGN stresses it is essential work but acknowledges it will be disruptive and has apologised in advance.

Bus routes will be impacted. Passengers are advised to check with their bus provider for changes to bus stop locations, diversion routes and timetables.

Dorset Echo: Dorchester Road in Weymouth will be closed northbound near Manor Roundabout

The work follows disruption for drivers earlier this year when temporary lights were in place for weeks at the nearby Mercery Road junction, causing long tailbacks.

Regarding this latest road project, it is said that the proximity of the work to the Manor Roundabout means temporary traffic lights can't be used safely.

This means that traffic going northbound on Dorchester Road will need to find an alternative route - the suggested route which will be signposted is back into Weymouth via Dorchester Road and then Weymouth Way.

A spokesperson for SGN said: "This essential work will involve replacing the existing old metal gas pipe with new plastic pipe to ensure we can continue to provide residents with a safe and efficient gas supply.

"We'll be working in the northbound lane. Due to the location of the gas main in the road, it will be necessary to close the northbound lane between these junctions for the duration of the work."

The spokesperson added: "Vehicle access to properties within the closure will be maintained and our team will make sure residents are informed of local access arrangements. Pedestrian and cycle access will be maintained.

"We appreciate how disruptive the lane closure will be for the local community and our engineers will be working as quickly and as safely as possible to complete this essential work. Please accept our apologies for any inconvenience caused."

A Dorset Council spokesperson said: "SGN can only carry out the work in the spring or summer months when there is less demand on the gas main, so it was agreed the period between May 15 and July 21 would be the least disruptive as it leaves the school summer holiday period free of any major works along this corridor."

The spokesperson added: "SGN will be providing information boards and signs coming up to the road closure area to notify people of the works, closure and diversion route."

Residents along the affected route should note that bin collections will be maintained and collection days will remain unchanged unless advised otherwise.