TRAFFIC is very slow on Wallisdown Road again this morning due to ongoing gas works.

Motorists yesterday were stuck in long delays as a result of the work. 

Heading towards Bournemouth, queues were forming from Mannings Heath Roundabout up to St Mark’s Church, where SGN are currently carrying out gas works.

Traffic has been reduced to a single lane and temporary traffic lights are in operation between the church and University Roundabout.

The works are due to take place until September 5.

A spokesperson for SGN said: "We are working to upgrade a section of our gas network in Wallisdown Road. 

"This particular section of our network has experienced a number of leaks in recent months. We’re now replacing our old main with new plastic pipe to ensure a continued safe and reliable gas supply to the local area. 

"In consultation with Dorset County Council, we will start work on Monday 22 August.  

"To ensure everyone’s safety, we need to install temporary two-way traffic lights in Wallisdown Road between St Mark’s Church and University Roundabout."

One motorist, who works in Poole and lives in New Milton, contacted the Echo to say it took him an hour and 30 minutes at 5pm to get past the roadworks.

He added: "Why has the local council not arranged for the roadworks to be completed overnight and not during the day, which impacts the rush hour traffic.

"It's a total disgrace." 

Another said there was over an hour's delay on the bus due to the "extremely slow traffic".

The SGN spokesperson added: "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 reliable gas supply for years to come."