FRUSTRATED motorists in Poole have been dealt a further blow, as a seven-week gas mains project starts on another major route.

Engineers from gas distribution company SGN are working on Herbert Avenue, and have temporarily closed its junction with Arne Avenue for the project duration.

This comes after drivers have been experiencing lengthy delays through Ashley Cross all week, following emergency gas works - and further jams heading into Poole through the A35 Upton Bypass works.

A SGN spokesman told the Daily Echo: "We are looking to complete the work at Herbert Avenue in six or seven weeks.

"If we can work extended hours at weekends to speed up the work, we will.

"We've closed the Arne Avenue/Herbert Avenue junction to help traffic flow on Herbert Avenue.

"There are two-way lights at that junction and will remain in place for the duration."

The project started on Monday (Jan 15), after the morning rush-hour.

Meanwhile, the emergency gas works at Ashley Cross - and another set of roadworks at the nearby junction of Commercial Road and Church Road - are both scheduled to finish today. (Jan 19)

Dorset County Council's (DCC) 14-week A350 bridge project, on the A35 Upton Bypass, also started this week.

Initially drivers reported delays of around 30 minutes, but these times have been improving as the week continued.

Engineers are installing concrete barriers to protect the A350 bridge piers on the verge. Work also includes improvements to the A35 westbound drainage, and the A350 bridge plinth replacement.

There is also a 30mph speed limit throughout the coned off works area, with a 50mph limit leading into the area in both directions.

DCC natural and built environment cabinet member Cllr Daryl Turner said: "Give yourself extra time for your journey, allow other drivers to merge in turn and please drive to the temporary speed restrictions, which are in place for everyone's safety."