RESIDENTS face roadwork misery until early next year.

Ongoing gas and water works continue on Sutton Way, Ellesmere Port.

New gas pipe works started on Monday on the A540 Chester High Road near Neston.

Motorists faced up to an hour’s delay yesterday morning after temporary traffic lights near the Hinderton Arms pub broke down during rush hour.

Cheshire West and Chester Council spokesman Ian Callister said: “The traffic lights broke yesterday morning and had to be operated by hand. There were some delays which we regret.”

He said the council had not had any complaints about congestion.

National Grid spokeswoman Jeanette Unsworth said: “We are planning to shut the road works between December 18 and January 4 to prevent congestion over the festive period.

“The work is part of essential work to replace old metal pipes with modern plastic ones which then won’t have to be touched for 80 years.

“We are working with United Utilities to minimise disruption, carrying out our own traffic management.

“The work is due to be completed by mid February 2010.”