A SECOND phase of roadworks on one of Bournemouth's busiest roads will get underway next week just weeks after the first phase ended.

Motorists are once again being warned to expect extra congestion on Castle Lane West during the second stage of a scheme to improve cycling and walking routes.

The first phase, which was focussed on improving the junction with East Way, ran into unexpected problems and didn't finish until the end of September.

Phase two will begin on Monday and will run until April 2015. Once complete, the area will have segregated cycle lanes, a dedicated cycle bypass giving priority at junctions, improved bus stops and safer crossing facilities.

Two-way traffic will be retained whenever possible and Bournemouth council has pledged not to implement temporary traffic lights until after Christmas.

But the second phase will coincide with the busiest time of year for the nearby Castlepoint shopping centre.

Independent Cllr Anne Rey, who represents Throop and Muscliff, said: “It seems a crazy time of year to do it, you might have thought it would have been better to wait until after Christmas.

“There are roadworks everywhere at the moment and I really wish they would look at the town as a whole and put a bit more thought into the planning of these things.”

The Castle Lane West works are being funded through additional government grants which Bournemouth council won to improve cycling, walking and public transport facilities.

Castle Lane West was chosen because it is used by around 30,000 motorists a day and a quarter of the town's primary and secondary school children attend nearby schools.

Cllr Michael Filer, cabinet member for transport, said: “It is our priority to ensure all pedestrians and cyclists feel safe and confident when travelling in and around the town.

“By carrying out these improvements we can help encourage others to travel more sustainably and lead healthier and more active lifestyles.”