Roadworks on the A78 between Seamill and the Waterside Hotel are set to continue - until the end of March.

Drainage work carried out by Amey, on behalf of Transport Scotland, had been due to end last week.

But the company has now announced that "unforeseen ground conditions" mean temporary traffic lights will continue to be in place at the work site until the end of next month.

That means it will be a whole five months of traffic light agony for North Ayrshire motorists.

The work has seen lengthy queues of traffic in the area since it began back on November 1.

And motorists were less than happy when the promised finishing date was extended from December 22 until February 9.

Now the roadworks, and temporary lights, will stay in place until March 31.

A spokesperson for the company said: "Amey are undertaking essential drainage work on vulnerable flood sites on the A78 between Seamill and the Waterside Hotel.

"Maintenance continues from its commencement on Wednesday November 1, 2023 due to unforeseen ground conditions that have impacted the delivery of the works.

"The drainage works are now scheduled to complete by Sunday, March 31.

"This scheme will benefit around 10,600 vehicles using this route each day, by improving the condition of the carriageway and reducing the need for more extensive maintenance in the future. 

"The work will be carried out under 24-hour temporary traffic lights installed at this location. We thank road users for their patience and co-operation while this essential work takes place. 

"Access for emergency service vehicles will be maintained throughout these works. 

"Please note, all schemes are weather dependent and may be cancelled or rescheduled if weather conditions are not favourable."