Businesses in Great Yarmouth face traffic disruption over the festive season as major roadworks are delayed.

It was hoped work on the Fullers Hill roundabout would be completed before Christmas, however it is now expected to be completed in the new year, will now take place throughout the Christmas period.

Contractors for Norfolk County Council, who are carrying out the work, said they had encountered some more difficult ground conditions than expected, thus delaying the scheme.

Chairman of the Norfolk County Council transport committee Martin Wilby said the work was really important for Yarmouth.

“I know the prospect of having roadworks on Fullers Hill roundabout for slightly longer will be frustrating – people have been very patient and we’re grateful.

“Sorting out some of the town’s congestion hot spots and making it easier for people to get around by car, bus, bike and on foot will have long-term benefits for local people’s day-to-day lives and the town’s economy.

“So I hope people will bear with us while we make these improvements and keep the end result in mind.”

County councillor for the Yarmouth North and Central division, Mick Castle, said the works is the first step in a series of major improvements on the approaches to the town.

He added: “There will be grumbles I am sure, and inevitably some delays, but this work just has to be done in the winter months given the need to avoid the Easter Fair and the relentless pressure on roads experienced during the main holiday season.”

Great Yarmouth Borough Council leader Graham Plant said the work was essential.

He added: “These are essential roadworks that will improve getting around the town in the long term and the window in which to carry them out is fairly small due to the summer tourist season. However, through negotiating with the county council we’re satisfied that the roadworks have been mitigated to create the least disruption and Yarmouth is very much open for Christmas shopping, ice skating and other festivities.”

Plans are for the lane closures will be lifted for Yarmouth’s Christmas lights switch-on and Christmas Fair from November 24 to 26.