THE latest roadworks set to spark queues and delays for drivers were due to start today. Extensive repair and restructuring work on Tuckton Bridge is scheduled to take five weeks.

The bridge is one of the main routes linking Bournemouth with Christchurch and motorists are bracing themselves for congestion.

Bournemouth’s cabinet member for transport and technical services, Cllr Michael Filer, said the work was essential.

He added: “It’s a heavily used bridge which is over 100 years old.”

The repair work will include sections of the concrete structure as well as improvements to the kerbing and drainage on the bridge deck.

Traffic flow will be restricted to single lane controlled by temporary lights. Full closure of the bridge takes place for four days from April 10 to replace the road surface.

This has been scheduled for the school holidays when traffic will be lighter.

At least one footway will be open at all times for pedestrians and cyclists.

Cllr Filer said “I want to reassure the travelling public that the council has done everything possible to minimise disruption.”

The cost of the work is being shared by Bournemouth and Dorset councils.