Gas works around a Weymouth roundabout are being complicated by concerns over the landscape.

The work currently being carried out by SGN near Chafeys roundabout will require further digging work and clearing of tree branches in order to continue.

These measures are required due to the area’s status as a Site of Special Scientific Interest.

SGN have stated that they intend to continue the work without installing temporary traffic lights.

Waseem Hanif, a spokesperson for SGN, said: “We’re continuing to upgrade our gas network by replacing our old metal gas main with new plastic pipe in Weymouth Way, near Chafeys roundabout.

“With the site being of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI), we’re committed to replacing the gas main while ensuring the local nature and landscape is protected.

“Much of our work has been carried out using a directional drilling procedure which helps to reduce the amount of trenches we need to dig, thus protecting the environment and reducing the need for additional traffic management.

“Unfortunately the procedure was unsuccessful in the verge just north of the roundabout due to ground conditions.

“We’ll now need to carry out work in this section by digging a trench however, following consultation with Nature England, overhanging branches and foliage will need to carefully removed first by specialists.

“In order to minimise inconvenience as much as possible for motorists, we intend to work without implementing temporary traffic lights and road closures however, lanes will need to be narrowed.

“Our work will resume once the branches have been cleared.”

The traffic management around the site was continuing over the bank holiday weekend, but no further measures were put in place.

Weymouth Town Councillor David Harris said: “The company seem to be trying to cause minimal disruption and I am pleased that they are trying to safeguard our trees whilst disrupting traffic as little as possible. The residents of Southill would, of course, like to have their crossing point back as soon as possible.”

Sites of Special Scientific Interest are areas of the country protected by law for conservation of the wildlife.