MOTORISTS returning to work after the bank holiday weekend may be hit by delays after plans to put temporary traffic lights on a Spur Road diversion route were announced.

The two-way traffic lights will be in operation in Christchurch Road, Ringwood, from Tuesday, May 3 until Friday, May 6.

The road is a popular diversion route for motorists attempting to avoid the Spur Road when travelling to and from areas including Ringwood and Fordingbridge.

A spokesperson from Bournemouth Water said the work has been agreed with Hampshire County Council.

"Work is being undertaken to install a new connection to the service," the spokesperson said.

"The company is keenly aware of current traffic issues.

"However, it has a legal obligation to connect new properties to the supply within 21 calendar days of the requirements being met.

"The work has been agreed with Hampshire County Council and Bournemouth Water will minimise disruption by managing traffic flow during peak travel times."

The two-way system will be manned between 7.30am and 9.30am and between 3:30pm and 6pm.

It's not entirely clear from the advance notices where the lights will be, but Dorset County Council's roadworks map places them just after the junction with New Street.