Drivers face renewed traffic chaos after essential roadworks were resumed on the A27.

Motorists yesterday ground to a standstill on the A27 Sompting bypass, as tailbacks brought disruption stretching for miles on the busy West-East Sussex route.

The £3.7 million scheme, which started in October, was suspended until January 4 to allow easier travel over the Christmas and New Year period.

But as the work resumed rush hour drivers were warned to expect months of traffic problems as traffic is restricted to one lane in each direction.

Highways Agency project manager Martin McMahon said: "The roadworks have now entered the second phase, which we hope to be completed by the end of March 2001. There is an additional incentive for the contracters, Costain, to finish the work on time, as there will be a penalty if they overrun. But obviously, this is dependant upon the weather which does not make things any easier. It is a very busy road, and we must consider safety issues."

The work is essential to upgrade the busy carriageway, parts of which were built in the 1930s.