MAJOR roadworks planned for later this month on the A258 road between Dover and Deal are likely to cause weeks of havoc for motorists.

Improvements to the stretch of road between Jubilee Way Roundabout and St Margaret’s will mostly be carried out at night, between 9pm and 6am, Mondays to Thursdays from January 23.

The road between these two points will be closed at these times and a major road diversion route, taking in the Sandwich bypass will be in place. It is likely to take six weeks.

The work is intended to make the road quieter, safer and smoother. It will involve removing and replacing the surface and some complete reconstruction. A pedestrian island will be added at the St Margaret’s junction.

A Kent Highways spokesman said: “The main road diversion route is along the A2, the A256 and back along the A258. There are smaller, alternative routes available in the area.”

Alternative routes will take in villages such as Guston, Eythorne, Eastry or Reach Road via Dover Castle, depending on drivers’ destinations.

During the times when they are not working on the road, temporary traffic lights will be in place and the speed limit will be reduced to 10mph, delaying journeys at busy times.

Some minor work may also be carried out during 9.30am and 3.30pm, but the road will remain open with temporary traffic lights.