THERE were long delays in Boscombe yesterday morning as two sets of roadworks began.

Engineers from Bournemouth Water are working in Boscombe Spa Road until this Friday, June 22.

One side of the carriageway is shut and a diversion is in place. However, as commuters used the route during rush hour, signs were not in place at the junction of Owls Road and St John's Road.

As a result, motorists continued into Boscombe Spa Road and found themselves unable to turn.

By 10.30am, a sign warning of local access only was in place.

SGN workers are also in nearby Christchurch Road until June 27. Two-way traffic signals will be in place during the course of the works.

Motorist Kelly James called the works "ridiculous".

"There aren't any signs in place at all until you hit the road closure, so it's absolutely manic," she said.

"Everyone's getting to this point and either ignoring the road closure signs or trying to turn around in the road.

"I can't believe it hasn't been better planned."

A spokesperson from Bournemouth Water said: "Following a letter-drop to local residents, Boscombe Spa Road was closed through to Christchurch Road this morning to set up a new water connection at a nearby property.

"Road signs for the works were confirmed by Bournemouth Borough Council. However after setting up the signage, we felt more provisions were required to inform road-users and ensure the safety of our workers, which we acted on immediately.

"We apologise to any road users during the period of acquiring further road signs and can confirm a suitable diversion has been in place via St Johns Road and Owls Road since the initial road signs were set up.

"We expect to have the works completed by the end of the week."