Traffic Chaos Slams Portsmouth as Drivers Ignore Roadworks Signs
Portsmouth’s Eastern Road has come to a grinding halt after motorists ignored warnings about major overnight roadworks on the water bridge. The closures, planned by Colas Ltd on behalf of Portsmouth City Council, are causing headaches across the city this October.
Weekend Road Closures Spark Tailbacks
The trouble kicked off on Friday 7 October when Eastern Road shut northbound between Anchorage Road and the Eastern Road roundabout at 9pm. A full diversion rerouted traffic via Airport Service Road, Williams Road, Norway Road, Copnor Road, Old London Road, and London Road.
Meanwhile, the southbound side was squeezed to a single lane for worker safety, with the northbound footway shut completely. Pedestrian detours were set up. The road was due to reopen by 5am Monday 10 October.
The same drill repeated on Friday 14 October, except this time it was southbound traffic facing the closure from 9pm. The diversion followed A27 Eastbound to Portsbridge Roundabout, then London Road, Copnor Road, Norway Road, Williams Road, and Airport Service Road. Again, light vehicles could use Anchorage Road, but with the northbound carriageway reduced to one lane and the southbound footway closed.
Full reopening was scheduled for 5am Monday 17 October, with traffic lights at Anchorage Road tweaked to ease congestion.
Resurfacing and Repairs Behind the Night Chaos
Colas Ltd are resurfacing the carriageway and footway, carrying out essential bridge repairs as part of a life cycle replacement scheme. They’re also squeezing in extra maintenance tasks in the area under the cover of night to minimise day-time disruption.
Warning to Drivers: Expect Delays Despite Night Work
Although work runs overnight to keep delays minimal, drivers are warned to expect hold-ups and follow signed diversions carefully. Weather remains a major wildcard — heavy rain could delay the entire project.
“Colas expect minimal delays but would advise anyone travelling in or out of the area during the works to allow extra time and heed the diversions,” the council said.
Frustrated by the build-up, council workers at one point opened a lane early just to ease traffic, despite the nearby M27 motorway running smoothly.
