A COUNCILLOR has claimed “non-existent” signage at a set of roadworks has led to major and unnecessary traffic disruption.

Repairs and maintenance work to drainage systems on the A27 at Hangleton began in late October.

As a result of the work, temporary traffic management is in place on the A27 around the junction with the A293 (Hangleton interchange).

Peter Atkinson, independent councillor for North Portslade, has slammed Highways England for their handling of the roadworks.

“Obviously, the work needs to be done but the signage has been very poor and sometimes non-existent,” he said. “This has led to major problems for local residents as they go about their daily business.”

The Argus: Peter Atkinson, independent councillor for North Portslade Peter Atkinson, independent councillor for North Portslade

Cllr Atkinson said the handling of the works has caused traffic jams in Hove and Portslade, as drivers try to avoid the works.

“The lack of proper signage advising closure is a real let-down,” he said. “I’ve been caught out several times having to travel to Shoreham unnecessarily and also retrace my route from the Hangleton junction having found it closed during the day when it was meant to be open.

“It’s all very well having diversion signs around the area, but road users need to be advised correctly when sections of the A27 or junctions are closed in the first place.”

The roadworks are now due to end on Tuesday, November 23 – a day after their original planned end date.

Cllr Atkinson said he has contacted Highways England directly with comments from residents.

“This needs to be sorted as it is causing huge frustration and anger,” he added. “I got diverted for almost a mile and a half as the signage was misleading and not clear at all.

“You would have thought with something this major enough planning would have gone into adequate and clear signage.”

In a statement released on their website, Highways England said: “Our work is taking longer than expected, so we have had to change the dates and length of some of our traffic management.

“Sorry for any inconvenience this may cause.”

Highways England have been approached for further comment.