Roadworks finish early after weeks of delays

Roadworks on a main route between Newport and Cowes on the Isle of Wight have been finished and the road has opened three days early.

The works at Horsebridge Hill have been in place since 12 May on the edge of Newport - with a temporary week-long halt for the Isle of Wight Festival - so a new junction could be built for a housing development at Acorn Farm.

A diversion of more than nine miles (14km) on the northbound stretch was in place with temporary lights southbound.

A full closure had been scheduled this weekend but the works, due to finish on Monday, were completed ahead of schedule.

Isle of Wight Council said: "Thank you to everyone for your patience during this time. We understand the frustration and disruption it has caused."

Local businesses have previously complained about the impact the closure has had on trade.

The council warned drivers to be aware of the new road layout in place and said the road would have a 30mph speed limit until further notice.

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