MAJOR roadworks that had been postponed due to the coronavirus outbreak have been rescheduled to begin later this month.

The closure of Wallisdown Road, which is required to complete the next phase of BCP Council's infrastructure overall in the area of Bournemouth, will begin on Monday, May 11.

The road will be closed for two and a half weeks from its junctions with Alton Road and Talbot Drive.

Engineers will carry out a full depth reconstruction of the existing carriageway to be carried out, from Wallisdown Roundabout to Fern Barrow Road. The local authority said this phase of the project is considered essential as the carriageway is reaching the end of its usable lifespan.

Councillor Andy Hadley, BCP Council's cabinet member for transport and infrastructure, said: “It’s essential that these works take place now as the road surface is becoming unsafe for traffic. With all safety considerations taken into account, we can confidently proceed, and with so many people staying at home disruption will be minimised.’

“Vehicular access for key workers and those travelling for essential purposes will be via a signposted diversion route, please allow extra time for your journeys. Access along Wallisdown Road will be maintained for both pedestrians and cyclists, to help where residents are undertaking their daily period of exercise’’

Originally due to take place at the start of April, the roadworks were was postponed due to the coronavirus pandemic. Following guidance issued by the Government, a safety review has been carried out by council officers.

The council said all possible mitigation actions will be implemented on site to reduce the risk of transmission.