A busy Weymouth road will be closing in one direction for two months starting today.

As previously reported in the Echo - Dorchester Road near the Morrisons supermarket - between its junction with Roman Close and the Manor Roundabout - will be closed in the northbound direction from today, Monday, May 15 until Friday, July 21.

This is so SGN can replace 200 metres old old metal gas pipes with new plastic pipes.

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).

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.

Councillor Pete Barrow is disappointed that the roadworks will be taking place so soon after the previous disturbance.

He said: "It is a disappointment that a section of the road that was affected by roadworks so recently is going to be again. People are going to be significantly inconvenienced.

"We had a lot of complaints about the previous roadworks."

He added: "These things have to happen and people will cope with it the best they can. Plan accordingly, choose different routes and leave extra time.

"It is important that it is done before the holidays, so we need to make sure it finishes on time."

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

SGN has stressed that the work is essential, but has acknowledged it will be disruptive and has apologised in advance.

The proximity of this work to the Manor Roundabout means temporary traffic lights can't be used safely.

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.

However it is anticipated some drivers will divert via Mercery Road.

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."

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

A spokesperson for SGN said: "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."

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