Bus companies, motorists and even a councillor have had their say over 'vital' roadworks taking place in Poole this week.

On the first day of the works at Mannings Heath roundabout in Poole yesterday, road users were stuck in traffic during the day - but especially during rush hour.

Bus companies Morebus and Yellow Buses both warned passengers about the delays caused by the works.

Read more: What you need to know as Mannings Heath roundabout to close for five days

The work has been described by BCP Council as “vital” and being done to “protect resident’s vehicles” and make the road safer.

BCP Council said that while there is “never a good time” to carry out works on such a “crucial hub”, they believed completing the works after the Easter holiday period and before the May bank holiday would minimise the impact.

Some residents have questioned the timing of the works and asked why they weren't completed during Easter holidays.

The works are scheduled to end on Saturday morning.

Councillor Mike Greene, portfolio holder for transport and sustainability, said: “The Mannings Heath roundabout services some of our busiest roads and deals with a large amount of traffic every day.

"We appreciate that there will be some disruption to people’s journeys, but the benefits felt five days later will really improve this essential route through Poole and into Bournemouth.”

Earlier in the day, Cllr Vikki Slade said in a tweet: "Chaos on Gravel Hill, Arrowsmith & Magna rds too - would suggest at least an extra 20 mins for rush hour journeys this week if you MUST use the car! Sadly I have to transport children in care from one side of poole to other side of bournemouth so no choice (too far to cycle!)."