FIVE weeks of work to replace traffic signals at Cooper Dean roundabout starts today.

Motorists have been warned to expect delays and are advised to plan ahead or take an alternative route while the work is being carried out.

Why is this work being done?

Bournemouth Council say all the existing signals on the busy roundabout have reached the end of their serviceable life.

What is the work exactly?

It involves a mixture of engineering works and electrical traffic signals.

It will see 24 poles, 26 traffic signals, seven pedestrian signals, and 11 pedestrian push buttons disconnected, removed, replaced and re-cabled. A new traffic signal controller is also being installed which connects everything together to run the junction.

How will traffic be managed?

There will be temporary signals and lane closures in place 24/7 during the work.

Bournemouth Council say the work will be carried out seven days a week between 7am and 5pm.

What's going to be happening during the works?

Lane closures will change throughout the duration of the works as progress is made. There may be temporary pedestrian crossings in place as well.

Why does it have to be done during rush hour?

The council say they considered working outside of the peak times, but this would have meant the roadworks continuing for a longer amount of time, with the same traffic management measures in place.

Can't it be done at night?

Basically, no. The work is considered too complicated and needs to be done during daytime hours. This is also due to the risks to the team on site, especially as they are dealing with electrics in confined spaces and underground.

The council say they will have double crews working on site and at weekend to make sure it is done as quickly as possible.