MOTORISTS will face delays when £1.2million gasworks are carried out on a main under the A35 for a month.

Southern Gas Networks (SGN) will be carrying out the work from Monday, November 19 to upgrade the gas supply network in Charmouth and Lyme Regis.

The existing gas main under the A35 at Charmouth needs to be upgraded to a larger pipe to meet the increased demand of the West Dorset area.

During the first phase, the gas main running underneath the A35 will be replaced, one carriageway at a time.

SGN says it will be necessary to have two-way temporary traffic lights for approximately four days to allow room for the manoeuvre of equipment.

In early December, the second phase of work will begin in the grass verge at the side of the A35.

Two-way temporary traffic lights will be in place for up to ten days outside of peak times to ensure the safety of the workforce.

SGN construction manager Colin Horne said: “We have been working in close collaboration with the Highways Agency to plan this work, and we will be doing everything we can to minimise disruption.

“I would like to apologise for any inconvenience that may be caused by our work. We understand that people can get frustrated by roadworks.

“However, the new plastic pipe has a minimum lifespan of 80 years.

“This means that when the work is complete, people will continue to enjoy the benefits of a safe and secure gas supply for years to come.”