Cumberland Council is set to begin resurfacing work on Workington Viaduct on the A597.

The project, which kicks off on Monday, October 28, is part of the council's ongoing commitment to enhancing the local road network.

The work will be carried out in three phases and is expected to take about three weeks to complete, depending on the weather.

The council has stated that work will be conducted Monday to Friday, between 7am and 7pm, with no plans for weekend work.

However, the road will be made safe and reopened to the public during the weekends.

Each stage of the work is expected to take approximately five working days, with a signed diversion route established for each phase.

During the first phase, a single lane will remain open for traffic between Havelock Road (U2532) and Tesco (A597).

In the second phase, traffic from Tesco (A597) will be able to use the lower side of the viaduct, with access to either Station Road (B5297) or the continuation of the A597 towards Clay Flatts Industrial Estate.

The third phase will see the viaduct fully open in both directions for all traffic on the A597 and B5297, except for access from Havelock Road (U2532), which will remain restricted.

A comprehensive location plan showing the work extents can be found online.

To help manage traffic and provide clear instructions, the council has installed digital Variable Message Signs (VMS) on main routes leading to the viaduct.

These signs will continue to operate as work progresses to help minimise congestion.

Stagecoach will run a reduced bus service in the area of the work during the closure.

Passengers with queries regarding bus routes are advised to contact Stagecoach directly.

Access to the train station car park will be via Clay Flatts Roundabout during the first phase of the work.

After this phase, the road will be open in both directions.

Residential waste collections will not be impacted.

Cumberland Council has reminded the public that businesses will remain open as usual during the work and has encouraged the community to keep supporting local businesses.

Emergency services will have access at all times, although some delays may occur.

The council has thanked the public for their patience and cooperation during this project and has apologised for any inconvenience caused.

For more information, residents and businesses can report online via the council's website or contact the Highways Hotline at 0300 373 3736.