A MAP showing major roadworks set to begin next month on the A36 between Wilton and Salisbury has been released, as details of the long-running project are confirmed.

Earlier this week, we revealed that gas works are planned along the busy route after residents contacted us with letters they had received from the company involved.

At the time, no official statement had been issued by SGN.

The utility firm has now confirmed that, following consultation with Wiltshire Council, work will begin on Monday, January 5 and is expected to last around 20 weeks.

Phase one of the project is due to be completed by the end of May, with SGN’s website showing traffic diversions remaining in place until May 29.

During the first phase, temporary traffic lights will be installed as engineers work on the westbound lane of Wilton Road between Gorringe Road and Windsor Street.

Bus stops along this stretch will be taken out of use and motorists are being warned to expect delays.

Phase two will run from Monday, April 13 to Sunday, May 10, and will see Wilton Road between Windsor Street and St Paul’s Roundabout closed.

Vehicles will not be able to continue west from St Paul’s Roundabout, and a diversion will be in place for that direction. Eastbound traffic will not be affected.

Pedestrian and cycle access will be maintained, although some bus services will be affected.

The scheme will see ageing metal gas mains replaced with modern plastic piping, which is less vulnerable to damage.

However, concerns have been raised about the timing of the works.

Just two weeks after the project begins, National Highways is due to start a £23 million upgrade of the A36 through the city on January 19, with daytime lane closures from February 2 at Castle roundabout.

A SGN spokesperson said: “We’ve worked closely with the local authorities in planning this work, and we will be doing everything we can to limit disruption during our essential project.

“We appreciate that work in this area is sensitive and roadworks can be frustrating; we recognise this and are doing everything we can to get this essential work done as quickly and as safely as possible.

“We’d like to thank everyone affected for your patience, understanding and support as we work to improve the energy infrastructure in Salisbury.”