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Motorists travelling in Chichester during rush hour have endured traffic chaos over the last few weeks and it could be about to get worse.

Much of the recent problems on the roads have been caused by the A27 Portfield scheme, which began in May, as part of planning permission for the new Shopwyke Lakes development. The scheme commenced on a number of roads, including the A27 Chichester bypass, A27 Westhampnett bypass, Portfield Way, Shopwhyke Road and Oving Road in May. The major scheme, which has seen the A27 narrowed, is scheduled to continue until autumn 2020.

Read our round-up of roadworks in the city hereAs of next week, the railway line between Chichester and Havant is set to shut for nine days during the autumn half term for engineering works. From Monday, October 28 to Friday, November 1 buses will replace trains between Havant and Chichester. Buses will also replace trains between Barnham and Havant, when the line is closed on the following weekend dates: Saturday, October 26 and Sunday, October 27, Saturday, November 2 and Sunday, November 3, Sunday, November 10, Sunday, November 17, Saturday, November 30 and Sunday, December 1.

This will no doubt create further traffic problems for motorists.

Heavy traffic along Spitalield Lane. Photo: Kate Shemilt ks190518-1

Spitalfield Lane has also seen huge disruption, due to the temporary traffic lights set up whilst gas main work takes place, which is due to end on November 29. Commuters are currently facing delays of 20 minutes or more entering the city via Portfield roundabout due to these roadworks.

Bradley Barlow, a spokesman for gas distribution company SGN which authorised the works back in August, said: "This essential work involves the replacement of old metal gas mains with new plastic pipe to ensure we continue to provide a safe and reliable gas supply to the local area. It follows our recently completed upgrade work in College Lane, Chichester.

"In consultation with West Sussex County Council, to ensure everyone’s safety we installed temporary traffic lights around our work area on Tuesday 20 August for approximately 15 weeks. We’re manually operating the lights from 6.30am to 7pm to keep the traffic flowing.

"We understand people can get frustrated by roadworks. However, the new plastic pipe has a minimum lifespan of 80 years. This means that when our work is complete, Chichester residents will continue to enjoy the benefits of a safe and reliable gas supply for years to come."

Chichester traffic chaos — Is it about to get worse?