MOTORISTS are warned of a major new roadworks and diversions in Runcorn as part of the construction of the Mersey Gateway.

They start on Monday, June 22 and some road closures will be in place for 12 months.

Drivers using the Central Expressway, Weston Link and Weston Point Expressways, particularly those heading north, will find their journeys affected.

Hugh O'Connor, general manager of Merseylink, said the project team is striving to return the road network to normal as soon as possible.

He said: "We know there's a lot of roadworks going on across Halton and we're grateful for the patience everyone has shown.

“These diversions are necessary to allow the team to carry out essential work.

"The changes to the road network are vital to provide an efficient connection between the bridge and the highways of Halton and the wider area.

"I'd like to urge everyone driving through Runcorn to follow the reduced speed limits, as this will allow them time to understand the diversion signs and therefore follow the right route to their destination."

The northbound slip road from Halton Lea to A533 Central Expressway will be completely closed from 22 June for approximately 12 months.

A diversion via Hallwood junction will be in place and indicated by a hollow circle.

The Weston Link slip road to Central Expressway northbound - the slip road linking the eastbound Weston Link to the northbound Central Expressway will be completely closed from 22 June for approximately 12 months.

A diversion via Hallwood junction will be in place and indicated by a solid square.

The A557 Weston Point Expressway slip road to Weston Link eastbound - the slip road from Weston Point Expressway northbound (from M56 Junction 12) to Weston Link eastbound (towards Central Expressway) will be completely closed from June 29 for approximately 12 months.

Two existing diversions will be re-routed and new signage will be in place.

Traffic diverted because of the ongoing closure of the Boston Avenue slip road to the A533 Central Expressway northbound will be re-routed from June 22 via Hallwood junction due to the closure of the slip road from Halton Lea to the Central Expressway.

The ongoing closure of the Southern Expressway to Weston Link will continue to follow the existing diversion but drivers using this route will need to follow diversion signs showing a solid diamond.

For further information, visit merseygateway.co.uk/down-your-street.