THERE are lane closures in place on a busy stretch of the A27 due to emergency works on a burst water main.

Southern Water said last night that the measures had been put in place at the Falmer junction so staff could "work quickly and safely on pipes under the road".

Two of three lanes of the southbound carriageway remain shut this morning.

At 6.41pm yesterday, a Southern Water spokesman said: "There will be a short closure on the A27 at the Falmer junction heading towards Brighton while we work quickly and safely on pipes under the road.

"For the safety of motorists and workers, two of three lanes will be closed on the southbound carriageway with traffic heading southbound exiting and re-entering the road via the Falmer junction.

"To minimise disruption we’ve sourced tarmac, despite suppliers being shut until the New Year, and will work continuously over 24 hours.

"We apologise for the disruption caused and thank you for your patience."

An AA traffic report from this morning said the "main roadway is closed due to emergency repairs on the A27 Falmer Hill westbound at the B2123 The Drove (Falmer/Rottingdean Junction)".

It stated: "Repairs are being carried out to a burst water main, affecting traffic heading towards Brighton, past the Amex Stadium.

"A detour is in operation."

UPDATE

Southern Water told The Argusthis morning that works had been completed.

A spokesman said: "We’re pleased to say repairs to a burst main on the A27 beside Falmer station, Brighton were completed overnight.

"We were able to source hot tarmac and will be reinstating the road today.

"We will keep customers updated on our social media channels and apologise for any disruption this urgent work has caused."

Keep up to date with all the latest Sussex traffic and travel news with our dedicated Facebook group>>>