Be prepared for delayed journeys next week as starting from next Monday 14 November there will be major roadworks on the Wessex Way (A338) in Bournemouth.

The works on the Bradley Road Overbridge– which will take around three weeks – will require a single lane closure on both sides of the carriageway between Bournemouth West Roundabout and St Paul’s Roundabout.

A 30mph speed limit will ensure the safety of those working on site.

Furthermore, the eastbound Richmond Hill Interchange off slip will be closed with traffic diverted to Bournemouth West Roundabout.

Works involve the construction of two crossover points through the central reservation.

Planned future maintenance works to the Braidley Road Overbridge will be supported by this arrangement, with the resulting traffic management allowing for one lane westbound and one lane eastbound.

Julian McLaughlin, BCP service director, Transport and Engineering, said: “The Wessex Way opened in 1970 and is one of the main arterial routes linking our three towns. We need to make sure it is properly maintained and remains safe for years to come.

“Following recent inspections, we’ve identified the need to replace the expansion joints together with other maintenance works on the Braidley Road Overbridge. To be able to do this safely and keep the road open, we need to install two crossover points.

“We appreciate that this will lead to some disruption to journeys and would therefore advise people to avoid travelling at peak times, use alternative routes or consider walking and cycling where possible.”