A major Weymouth road is set to be closed for more than a week so a damaged sewer main can be repaired.

The burst happened this afternoon beneath the A354 Weymouth Way between Westham Crossroads and Chafeys Roundabout.

It led to part of the carriageway being flooded - however the road remained open.

Wessex Water engineers were sent to the scene and repair work commenced.

However it has emerged tonight the repair is extensive and the road will have to close for a week.

The road will be closed both ways between Westham Crossroads (Abbotsbury Road/Swannery Bridge) and Chafeys Roundabout A354/Granby Way).

The closure will come into force from 9.30am today (Thursday), after the morning rush-hour, and it is anticipated work will be completed in a week and the road reopened by Friday, June 28.

A signed diversion will be in place directing drivers up Boot Hill, along the A354 Buxton Road to Foords Corner, Lanehouse Rocks Road, Chickerell Road and the B3157 Granby Way.

The closure is likely to caused major traffic disruption over the next week. The town is expecting many visitors this weekend for the military and veterans festival. Motorists are also facing restrictions in the area of Chafeys Roundabout due to an ongoing gas repair project.

A spokesman for Wessex Water said: “In order to complete emergency repairs to a damaged sewer pipe, the A354 Weymouth Way will be closed between Chafey’s roundabout and Westham Crossroads from 9.30am on Thursday (20 June).

“The closure has been timed to avoid the morning rush hour, with a diversion in place via Lanehouse and Granby Way.

“We apologise again for the disruption and thank residents and road users for their co-operation.”

Earlier, the spokesman said: "We are currently repairing a burst between Westham Crossroads and Chafey’s Roundabout.

"Part of the road has been cordoned off but there is no closure and traffic flow is being managed.

"Our team are working hard to compete repairs as quickly as possible and we apologise for any inconvenience or disruption."