ESSENTIAL roadworks have begun in Walton-in-Gordano but are causing inevitable delays for motorists travelling to and from work at peak times.

The B3124 closed on Monday for four weeks so that North Somerset Council could start resurfacing works.

Around 1.2 miles towards Portishead from Holly Lane will close while the final stage of resurfacing is carried out and drainage works are also being carried out on nearby Walton Street.

The council says both roads need to be closed because they are narrow and it would be unsafe to carry out the works with passing traffic.

The main diversion route is via the M5 junction 19-20 or the alternative routes – B3130 Tickenham Road, B3128 Clevedon Road, B3129 Beggar Bush Lane and the A360 Abbots Leigh Road.

North Somerset's executive member for highways councillor Elfan Ap Rees asked people to be patient while the works were carried out, saying: "We realise that these works will be inconvenient for regular users of this route but this is essential work and there is no other practical option.

"Drivers will need to be patient and allow extra time for their journeys and allow our contractor to get on and finish the work as quickly as possible.

"This is the final stretch of resurfacing works on the B3124 between Clevedon and Portishead and road users will soon reap the benefits."