MOTORISTS are facing further frustration over ongoing works at Cow Lane as the road will be off limits for 48 hours.

The project between Reading Borough Council and Network Rail has blighted the lives of many residents and the section is set to be closed on the weekend of June 30.

It is hoped two-way traffic will be allowed to flow under the bridge again from the early hours of July 2.

The weekend closure applies to all traffic, pedestrians and cyclists and a series of diversion routes will be in place.

The project suffered a six-month setback in May after developers revealed complications to the realignment works and issues with drainage.

Councillor Tony Page, lead member for transport, said: “The return of two-way traffic flows under Cow Lane brings to an end the one-way working which we know has caused enormous frustrations to all road users.

"I would additionally like to thank residents and business along Cardiff Road for their patience during the recent closure needed for realignment works.

“The weekend closure of Cow Lane is now necessary for Network Rail to fully resurface the road. Advance warning signs will be in place over the coming days and we would ask people to plan their journeys over that weekend and build in extra time for journeys.”

The former 'bottleneck' has been transformed to allow larger vehicles to pass through Cow Lane.

Drivers faced several months of delays while the road was made one-way only to allow the project to be carried out.

Cardiff Road is expected to be closed at the junction with Cow Lane from May 21 for up to six weeks, in addition to the one-way restriction underneath the northern rail bridge on Cow Lane.

Ruth Leuillette, senior sponsor at Network Rail for the Cow Lane project, added: “Winter weather conditions earlier this year, combined with increased vehicle movements, have seen a significant deterioration of the road surface at Cow Lane, between the junctions of Portman Road and Cardiff Road.

"We are taking the opportunity now to fully resurface the road, meaning it will be in a good condition for all road users passing under Cow Lane.”