Boscombe has been dealt another dose of motoring misery in the form of 10 weeks worth of gas works.

Drivers are once again having to contend with lengthy queues and temporary traffic lights as the third and final phase of gas main replacement works get under way.

It caps a bad couple of years for Boscombe, following the closure of Ashley Road bridge, a five-month road improvement scheme on the western end of Christchurch Road and six months of roadworks on Holdenhurst Road.

Southern Gas Networks’ plans will centre on the eastern end of Christchurch Road, from Crabton Close Road to Pokesdown Station.

The works started last week and are scheduled to last until December 6. Temporary traffic lights will be in place for the duration.

Duncan MacDonald, spokesperson for Southern Gas Networks, said: “We’ve had quite a few meetings with the council and the traders’ association because we realise that the work is disruptive.

“The feedback we received was that pretty much everyone realised it had to be done.

“This is essential work to replace the old cast-iron gas main with one made of polyethylene.

“This is flexible, robust and can last 80 years so will help ensure the long-term safety and security of the gas network.”

Angus Reid, spokesperson for Boscombe Traders’ Association, said: “It will have an impact on traders but at the same time, this is essential work and it has to be done.

“It does seem that Boscombe has had more than its fair share of roadworks lately and it has affected trade a little bit, but if diversions are put in place and publicised, people will be able to find alternative routes.”

Boscombe West Cllr Philip Stanley-Watts said: “Boscombe has had so many roadworks in the past year and then there was the bridge replacement. It’s been a very difficult time for traders.”