MOTORISTS have been warned to expect delays along a Bournemouth commuter route after a major scheme of engineering work was announced.

The existing metal gas mains and services need to be replaced with modern plastic pipes in Talbot Avenue.

As a result, temporary traffic lights will be in place along a stretch of the route for six weeks from Monday, September 26.

The £1.3 million project will be undertaken by gas distribution company SGN in partnership with the Health and Safety Executive.

It will progress westwards along Talbot Avenue from the Wimborne Road roundabout towards Talbot Roundabout.

The temporary traffic lights will move according to where the work is taking place.

Side roads on the north side of Talbot Avenue - Oban Road, Roslin Road and Berkley Road - will be consecutively closed as the works move along the stretch.

Signed diversion routes will be in place during the closures.

SGN construction manager Alan Thompson said: “We’ve worked closely with the local authorities in planning this work and we will be doing everything we can to limit disruption during our essential project.

“We appreciate that roadworks can be frustrating.

“However, the new plastic pipe has a minimum lifespan of 80 years.

“This means once the work has been completed, Bournemouth homes and businesses will enjoy the benefits of a continued safe and reliable gas supply for many years to come.”

Councillor Mike Greene, Bournemouth council cabinet member for transport, sustainability and carbon management, said: “SGN have assured us that the works are necessary, and I would urge them to recognise how busy the route is and the difficulty it will cause drivers.

“I am sure they will do everything they can to ensure work is completed as soon as possible.”

Last month, SGN engineers carried out gas works in Wallisdown Road.

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