DRIVERS are being warned of possible delays as a six-month roadwork project gets under way today.

Wessex Water will be carrying out main replacement work on the A351 Corfe Road between Stoborough Green and Corfe Castle.

The scheme is set to renew 56-year-old pipework and a new water main is being installed to reduce the risk of supply interruptions and improve water quality in the area, replacing current pipework that dates back to 1962 and has been gradually degrading.

Temporary traffic lights and a 50 mph speed limit will be in place on the A351 as part of the scheme, which is scheduled to run for approximately six months.

Paul Delves, southern project manager, said: "The hot dry summer we've just experienced has magnified the importance of replacing pipes that are prone to bursts of leaks, ensuring water isn't wasted.

"This scheme is essential to improve water quality and offer a more reliable supply to our customers, but we appreciate the A351 is a major route and will do our very best to minimise disruption.

"Work will be carried out in stages and traffic lights will be manually controlled seven days a week, from 7am to 7pm.

"We're sorry for any inconvenience caused by our work and thank residents and road users in advance for their patience."