Traffic chaos expected on A27 this weekend

The road will be restricted to a single lane either side of the railway station bridge, with traffic lights, but an alternative route is being signposted from Crossbush, along the A284 to Wick, the A259 to Bognor and the A29 back to the A27 at Fontwell.

The restrictions apply from 7.30pm tomorrow (Friday), all weekend until 5am Monday. Lengthy delays are expected on the A27 itself and on the alternative route.

This weekend's work is the first phase of two to replace the safety fence with a new one featuring a metal impact barrier which will act as a shock absorber.

During phase two, all the work will be overnight, from 7.30pm-5am, Mondays to Fridays, until October 20. Again, a single-lane traffic system will be in operation, controlled by traffic lights, and with the same alternative route signposted.

The Highways Agency (HA) has distributed 8,000 leaflets in the Arundel area to make motorists and residents aware of the roadworks.

Martin Wright, HA route manager for Sussex, said: "This new safety fence will enhance road users' safety along the A27 at Arundel. We would ask road users to allow more time for their journeys and to use the alternative route where possible. We thank them for their patience while these essential works are taking place."

Arun councillor Ricky Bower warned this weekend's work would cause traffic chaos not only in the Arundel area, but around Littlehampton, with hundreds of extra vehicles an hour following the diversion route to avoid the inevitable lengthy delays at the Crossbush junction.