MOTORISTS are facing tailbacks and delays following the start of gas main repairs on a main commuter route into Liverpool.

Work along the A565 Crosby Road South, in Waterloo, began on Saturday, February 16, and is expected to be completed by Sunday, February 24.

Until then, traffic is reduced to one lane along the busy stretch and temporary traffic lights in place at the junction of Cambridge Road by Potters Barn.

A new plastic water main has been laid to replace old metal pipework and the necessary connections now need to be made, which leading to the closure of the two Liverpool-bound lanes.

The whole project is expected to last four weeks.

The replacement plastic main has a lifespan of around 80 years.

The work is part of an overall package of improvements across the North West being carried out by National Grid, which is investing £84m in the region’s gas supply network.

The decision by National Grid to use the school half- term period for the gas main renewal work followed consultation and agreement with Sefton Council.

Network operations engineer Craig Hampson said: “To help minimise traffic disruption as much as possible along this busy stretch, we have scheduled the work in the school holidays when there is less demand on the road at peak periods.

“While the work is taking place, a four-way temporary traffic light system will be in operation.

“We appreciate there will be delays but we will do our best to keep traffic moving while we carry out this phase of the work, which will see us connecting up the new main to ensure gas supplies to households and businesses are secured.”

Residents living near the roadworks said the traffic has left them “trapped” at busy times of the day.

Jane Clare, of Victoria Road, Waterloo, said: “I am basically stuck because whichever way I come out of my house I am faced by huge tailbacks.

“In Crosby Road South, the traffic is stretching back towards the railway line but Cambridge Road is also busy as people drive around Potters Barn.

“The first I knew about it was on Sunday when I saw them putting up the roadworks.

“I thought at the time that it was going to bring chaos and Monday was horrendous. I set off for work and had to turn back because it was so bad.

“I was forced to work from home.

“Although it was a good idea to try and do it during half- term week, I don’t know what happens for the next three weeks if the work overruns.”