COUNCIL leaders have branded delays on funding for Weymouth's long awaited relief road 'intolerable'.

But members of Dorset County Council's cabinet pledged to do all they can to ensure that the Orange Route goes ahead as soon as possible.

The promise came as the cabinet heard that the scheme has been delayed because the council is still waiting for advice from the Department of Transport on which funding route to take

A report to cabinet reveals that Government grants would prove

better value than a Private Finance Initiative (PFI) in building the £54.6 million road.

Although council officers met with Department of Transport officials in January for advice on which funding avenue to pursue, the department has yet to make a recommendation.

Now another meeting has been arranged for September 16 in a bid to push the issue forward.

Coun Hilary Cox, portfolio holder for the environment, said: "It's extremely frustrating for this council that the Government is so slow in responding to our requests for guidance on funding.

"It puts us in an intolerable position. We want to achieve the Weymouth Relief Road - we are intending to achieve the Weymouth Relief Road.

"There are people out there who think that the delay is with the county council but this is not the case. We have put our money where our mouth is now its up to the Government to do the same."

Leader of the Council, Coun Tim Palmer said the relief road was a priority for the council.

"Weymouth and Portland desperately need this relief road. Delays are already having a damaging affect on the local economy."

Coun David Crowhurst added: "It's intolerable. It's about time the Government pulled its finger out and got on with it."

A report to the committee revealed that the Government has indicated it will help finance the multi-million pound scheme, but a complete assurance cannot be secured until statutory processes - such as planning permission - are completed, a PFI assessment is carried out and funds are earmarked

Miles Butler director of environmental services said finance proposals have hit a stalemate until the Department of Transport indicates whether the council should submit a business plan for PFI.

Members of the committee agreed to note the position.